Robert McWalters

Robert Michael
McWalters

Born August 11 1924

Passed May 16 2013

88 Years old

Born the youngest of a large Irish Catholic family of 10 and raised in Berkeley during the great depression he enlisted into the US Navy February 1943. He was assigned to the USS Hoel (DD533), which engaged the Japanese fleet in the heroic battle of "The Leyte Gulf". His actions in the battle included rescuing several injured sailors in a forward ammunition magazine that was on fire and getting them off the ship prior to it sinking.

Facing overwhelming odds of the Japanese fleet, the three destroyers that were dispatched to repel the oncoming threat were all sunk. He and other sailors spent many days in the water following the victorious battle until rescued. This was the largest Naval Battle in the history of the world and the turning point for the U.S. pacific campaign.

Upon an honorable discharge in October 1945 and receiving a purple heart he joined the merchant marines continuing his love for the sea. He worked for Matson Lines rising to the rank of Chief Boatswain's Mate on the USS Lurline and retired after 26 years of service.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Agnes of 58 years, Daughter Brigit Son in Law Jim Whims, Son Kevin Mc Walters and five grandchildren.

He was a true patriot and priorities in life were country, family and self as with many others of his great generation.