The Sullivan Brothers were five siblings who served in the United States Navy during World War II. The brothers, George, Francis, Joseph, Madison, and Albert, hailed from Waterloo, Iowa, and all perished aboard the USS Juneau on November 13, 1942, during the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal. Their tragic loss is remembered as one of the greatest sacrifices of a single American family during the war.
The Sullivan Brothers grew up in a close-knit family and all shared a desire to serve their country. In January 1942, they enlisted in the Navy with the stipulation that they be allowed to serve together. The Navy agreed, and the brothers were assigned to the same ship, the USS Juneau.
On November 13, 1942, during the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal, the Juneau was hit by a Japanese torpedo and sunk. The Sullivan brothers all went down with the ship, along with 687 other sailors. It was later revealed that some of the brothers survived the initial sinking and were in the water, but they ultimately died from exposure and shark attacks before they could be rescued.
The loss of the Sullivan brothers was a devastating blow to their hometown of Waterloo, Iowa, and to the entire country. The story of their sacrifice captured the public’s attention and became a rallying cry for the war effort. The brothers’ deaths inspired a number of patriotic gestures, including the naming of two Navy ships, the USS The Sullivans and the USS Juneau (CL-119), in their honor.
The Sullivan brothers’ legacy continues to inspire and honor those who serve in the military. In 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt wrote a letter of condolence to the Sullivan family, saying that “the nation grieves with you in your loss” and that “the memory of your sons’ lives will be a glory to their descendants.” Today, the Sullivan brothers are remembered as symbols of selfless sacrifice and a testament to the bond of family and service to one’s country.
Wrapping up, the story of the Sullivan Brothers is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by American service members during World War II. Their legacy continues to inspire and honor those who serve in the military, and their story serves as a reminder of the power of familial bonds and the importance of service to one’s country.
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