Howard Evan McCollom, MM1, born in Macoupin County, IL, completed high school and joined the USN on Aug. 18, 1936. He was stationed in the USS West Virginia and the USS New Mexico. Memorable experiences were of the Battle of Marianas, Leyte, two plane hits and shooting down 14 zeros.

Retired with the rank of MM1. He received the Good Conduct Medal and all the usual awards.

Married Wilma and they have five children, nine grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. A retired pipefitter, he enjoys basketball and walking.

Reprinted with permission from Turner Publishing