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This photograph was taken Easter Sunday, April 9th, 1944 aboard the USS Duane. This photograph was scanned from my grandfather John "Jack" Baker's Warbook. If you look closely, you will see a cross at the bow of the boat, behind a chaplain reading from a bible. I find this photograph particularly beautiful, with the sun rising between the clouds across the front of the ship. There is a stark contrast between the peacefulness of the men reading, and the reality of the massive guns pointed above their heads. This photograph wasn't marked, but it was likely taken by Dale Rooks. There are no identifiable men in the photograph. View full size.
Though manned by US Navy personnel, Duane was actually registered to the Coast Guard, and retained its Coast Guard classification--USCGC Duane (WAGC-33). Along with USCGC Campbell, Ingham, Taney, Spencer and Bibb, it was converted to an Amphibious Force Flagship in 1944, and took part in the invasion of southern France in August 1944, four months after this photo was taken.
https://www.navsource.org/archives/10/01/0106.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USCGC_Duane
I am glad you are enjoying the photos. This one is a big contrast between the many "war" based shots that I have. I think you will also enjoy some of the graveyard photos I will be posting in the near future.
To these men, this was likely a routine part of their schedule and activities. The photographer has captured a beautiful moment with the scenic view and religious activity contrasting with the implements of destruction in the setting of wartime. I could easily see this as publishable in Life or Look magazines at the time it was taken.
Thanks for sharing this series of WWII images.
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