So Many Goodbyes: Pearl Harbor was Only the Beginning

Jimmie Clark joined the Navy in 1940. The 17 year old Iowa farm boy said goodbye to Ma, slopping pigs and digging ditches. On December 7, 1941 his USS Nevada battle station was shattered and covered in blood as she attempted to cross Pearl Harbor. Despite the carnage of the sneak attack the Japanese withdrew due to American response two hours into this yet undeclared war. The Navy said goodbye to paradise and peace. Through the next four and a half years a generation of Americans grew up and became the sword Admirals and Generals needed for victory. Machinist Mate Clark toured many of the Pacific battles with USS Northampton covering over 135,000 nautical miles in less than twelve months. A transfer back to the West Coast saved himself and a buddy from the final goodbye for USS Northampton at the Battle of Tassfaronga. As Chief Petty Officer, James W. Clark Jr. stated: "The countries of the world must understand when the United States says 'Knock it off,' we mean it and I'll be there to help." Along the way of growing up for this Lone Wolf came romance, opportunities Iowa farm life couldn’t offer, discovering his father, marriage and family heartache. This is a glimpse of his Navy life that was repeated man after man, family after family across the nation during World War II. Today soldiers, Marines, and sailors of the titled "Greatest Generation" are saying goodbye to their final battles in record numbers. Let's never forget.