WAVES Scrapbook/Album

[hftiii]

This album belonged to Nellie Mae Showalter, and dates to her period of service, 1943-1945. She was from Weyer Cave, Virginia. The album includes pictures and documents of her service as well as family Photos. She trained as a store clerk in the WAVES, and undoubtedly gained valuable skills and experience that would serve her well in the post war years. If I'm not mistaken, she taught business in the local secondary school system and even earned her MBA at James Madision University in the 1970s. A very accomplished lady, I'd say.

The album includes photos of Nellie’s eldest brother, Edwin, who served with the 7th Marines 1943-1947. Casualty lists Indicate that Edwin was wounded in action in 1944, most likely during the battle of Peleliu. Although he survived his wounds, these may have been severe. He was transferred to several different naval hospitals during his long recovery. He was eventually moved to a hospital nearer home (from 1945-1947 USMC muster rolls list him at the Naval Medical Center at Bethesda, Maryland). He was discharged in 1947. Records indicate that he died in 1960 at 43 years of age.

Thanks for taking a look!

Tom

[Rakkasan187]

Tom,

A great reminder that our women also served with distinction.. A very nice grouping..

Smitty

[hftiii]

Thanks Smitty. I'm proud to be the temporary custodian of the album. It's an important piece of our history. Even though militaria collecting is in general strong things like this fall by the wayside sometimes.

Tom