WARBIRD RADIO - CAPT Robert "Bob" Batterson not only survived the December 7th surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, he continued to serve his country as a fighter pilot in the United States Navy. This is his incredible story and one we were blessed to record. Take a listen!
Here's the backstory:
Captain Robert E. "Bob" Batterson was a man of honor, courage, and unwavering dedication. Born in the rolling hills of West Virginia, his journey through life would take him from the coal mines of his hometown to the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, and later, into the service of the Church.
In the late summer of 1939, as war clouds gathered over Europe, a young and determined Bob enlisted in the United States Navy. His commitment to serving his country was unwavering, and he would go on to prove his mettle time and time again.
Bob's thirst for knowledge and his drive to excel were evident from the very beginning. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Ohio State University and further honed his skills with a Master's Degree from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School. These achievements were just the start of a remarkable career that spanned decades.
His first assignment took him to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, where he underwent recruit training. But fate had grander plans for him. Soon, he found himself stationed aboard the USS Philadelphia, CL-41, as part of the Pacific Fleet. It was here, in the vast blue waters of the Pacific, that Bob would come to understand the profound significance of his service.
Eight months before the infamous December 7th attack on Pearl Harbor, Bob was transferred to Naval Station Pearl Harbor. He would witness the horrors of that day and the United States' entry into World War II. But rather than deter him, the attack steeled his resolve to do all he could to protect his country.
When the opportunity arose for enlisted personnel to apply for flight training, Bob seized it. His determination soared as high as the aircraft he would come to master. In September 1944, he earned his wings as a Naval Aviator, becoming a guardian of the skies.
After completing fighter training in the formidable F6F Hellcat at Daytona Beach, Bob was assigned to Fighter Squadron ONE aboard the USS Bennington, CV-20. He served with distinction until the end of the war, earning respect and accolades from his fellow servicemen.
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