John Guenther - Mickey Strand - Veterans Series

Mickey Strand - Veterans Series

World War 2

Click on Veteran's photo to see their service story. These Warriors served during the World War 2.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where can I donate?

I have created a way to accept donations to grow the project, use the WWII Veterans Portrait Series Go Fund Me.

Where are you located?

I live in the San Diego area but have traveled to many locations to interview and photograph Veterans.


How Long is an Appointment?

Appointments usually last an hour. But please free up time for Mickey to set up lights and cameras, hold the interview, and take some still photographers for in the project.

Do you accept reservations?

Yes is the simple answer to the question. Each appointment is set up as an individual session. Group sessions have been set up when I visited a senior living facility or many of the California Veterans Homes.

Copyright © 2024 Mickey Strand – Veterans Series
US Navy ET1 World War 2 John Guenther enlisted in the Navy at 19 years of age, joining in Pittsburgh, PA. He underwent boot camp at the US Naval Training Center located on the east shore of Seneca Lake in Sampson, New York. President Roosevelt authorized the training center’s establishment on May 14, 1942, and the Navy opened Sampson Naval Training Station after acquiring 2535 acres of shoreline. John had positive experiences during boot camp, recalling his time working in the Galley and frequently assisting the cooks. He fondly remembered his role in feeding the crews and helping in the kitchen, creating lasting memories from his early days in the Navy. Following Boot Camp, John continued his training by attending the Naval Training Electronics Technician "A" school, where he learned the skills to become an Electronics Technician (ET). ETs are crucial in the Navy, as they are responsible for various electronic equipment, including systems for sending and receiving messages, computer information systems, long-range radar, and test equipment calibration. It’s a specialized and essential field that contributes to the effective functioning of naval operations. John was assigned as a crew member on board a 173-foot PCE-842-class patrol craft stationed in Hoboken, NY. These coastal patrol boats played a crucial role in deploying and patrolling the waters off Cuba, specifically, providing convoy escort duty. During this time, the patrols were instrumental in ensuring safe and navigable waters, especially when there were limited larger warships available for such duties. The efforts of crews like John’s on the patrol craft were vital in safeguarding maritime interests and supporting naval operations. In addition to his regular daily electrician duties, John was responsible for serving as part of the 3-inch/50 Dual Purpose Gun Crew during General Quarters. This type of gun fired a three-inch projectile down a 50-caliber barrel, and John’s well-trained crew demonstrated impressive efficiency, capable of firing 15-20 rounds per minute. Despite starting as an enlisted man, John’s dedication and skills were recognized, leading to his rise to the rank of ET1, or Petty Officer First Class. His advancement in rank speaks to his competence and commitment to fulfilling his duties as an electrician and a member of the gun crew. John’s service in the Navy for four years, including his role during combat operations, highlights his dedication to duty. Being demobilized at the end of the war marks the conclusion of his active service, and his experiences and stories undoubtedly contribute to the rich history of those who served during that significant period.
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John Guenther - Mickey Strand - Veterans Series
US Navy ET1 World War 2 John Guenther enlisted in the Navy at 19 years of age, joining in Pittsburgh, PA. He underwent boot camp at the US Naval Training Center located on the east shore of Seneca Lake in Sampson, New York. President Roosevelt authorized the training center’s establishment on May 14, 1942, and the Navy opened Sampson Naval Training Station after acquiring 2535 acres of shoreline. John had positive experiences during boot camp, recalling his time working in the Galley and frequently assisting the cooks. He fondly remembered his role in feeding the crews and helping in the kitchen, creating lasting memories from his early days in the Navy. Following Boot Camp, John continued his training by attending the Naval Training Electronics Technician "A" school, where he learned the skills to become an Electronics Technician (ET). ETs are crucial in the Navy, as they are responsible for various electronic equipment, including systems for sending and receiving messages, computer information systems, long-range radar, and test equipment calibration. It’s a specialized and essential field that contributes to the effective functioning of naval operations. John was assigned as a crew member on board a 173-foot PCE-842-class patrol craft stationed in Hoboken, NY. These coastal patrol boats played a crucial role in deploying and patrolling the waters off Cuba, specifically, providing convoy escort duty. During this time, the patrols were instrumental in ensuring safe and navigable waters, especially when there were limited larger warships available for such duties. The efforts of crews like John’s on the patrol craft were vital in safeguarding maritime interests and supporting naval operations. In addition to his regular daily electrician duties, John was responsible for serving as part of the 3-inch/50 Dual Purpose Gun Crew during General Quarters. This type of gun fired a three-inch projectile down a 50-caliber barrel, and John’s well-trained crew demonstrated impressive efficiency, capable of firing 15-20 rounds per minute. Despite starting as an enlisted man, John’s dedication and skills were recognized, leading to his rise to the rank of ET1, or Petty Officer First Class. His advancement in rank speaks to his competence and commitment to fulfilling his duties as an electrician and a member of the gun crew. John’s service in the Navy for four years, including his role during combat operations, highlights his dedication to duty. Being demobilized at the end of the war marks the conclusion of his active service, and his experiences and stories undoubtedly contribute to the rich history of those who served during that significant period.