World War II SeaBee in South Pacific
This picture of my father, Harold Joseph Bennett was taken on an unknown island in the South Pacific while he was serving in World War II. It dates from about 1944. He enlisted into the SeaBees right after graduation from High School in June 1943.
Daddy used to tell us about some of the Seabees who went over to unknown islands to “explore” and never returned. The story was that they were eaten by cannibals on those Islands. That was pretty scary stuff!
June 13, 2012 would have been his 87th birthday. I posted this on Facebook that week to remember Daddy, who passed away so young at age 49. What a handsome young man and great dad he was. It received quite a few “likes.”
I sent this photo to my son, Ken – who really never had a visualize picture in his mind of his own Grandfather. Now that he’s in his mid-20’s he is more interested in family history and he really got a kick out of seeing this.
I also dedicated this to others in the "Greatest Generation" during the week of D-Day, with the suggestion to remember and share our stories for our families and future generations.
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It may be interesting to check the National Archives (NARA) for his service record file to see what it may contain. It may give you names of islands rather than "unknown" islands and if you know the unit in which he served, there may even be information on the Internet. I enjoyed your story, and especially the photo. My uncle was killed on Palau Island in the South Pacific in 1943 as an infantryman.
Golden - thanks so much for the comment. It means alot to me to hear from you as I respect all that you have accomplished so far. (I'm still "transitioning" into this field after being a PR/media person in government and public utilities and being laid-off two years ago) Appreciate the lead about where to search for more info. I think he was in "New Hebrides" area. So many of our parent's generation served and their stories are moving and important. I have some other color slides that he took and they have been digitized-unfortunately, he's not in too many of the photos - they are of scenery, natives or other buddies. Thanks again for the words and info.
