At a youthful 91, Henry still exhibits the Navy discipline he learned 70 years ago, frequenting his home gym daily and taking part in many hobbies, including golfing with his daughters.
Born and raised in New Jersey, Henry understood early on his destiny to serve. As he puts it, he “didn’t really have a choice as men were being drafted,” at the time, and he felt the need to contribute. Inspired by his older brother, a World War II Army combat veteran,Henry combined his love of the water with his desire to serve and found a place in the Navy, enlisting in 1951 at the height of the Korean War.
Henry completed basic training in Newport, RI and was stationed aboard the destroyer USS McCaffery. Serving as a Quartermaster Seaman, Henry was responsible for signaling and navigation in addition to keeping meticulous logs, steering the ship, and serving as a lookout. He also manned a 20mm turret.
Henry was honorably discharged in 1954 and awarded the National Defense Service Medal and Navy Occupation Service Medal (European Clasp). His favorite part of his military service was being able to “see the world.”
HOHCT was proud to serve Henry for his service to our country.