JOSEPH GERCZAK WPC 1126
Ship Name and Designation History
This section lists the names and designations that the ship had during its lifetime. The list is in chronological order.
Delivered to the US Coast Guard 9 November 2017 |
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- USCGC Joseph Gerczak WPC-1126 Covers Page 1 (DATE RANGE)
Postmarks
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Other Information
NAMESAKE - Signalman Third Class Joseph Gerczak, USCG (10 February 1922 - 26 December 1943)
Gerczak enlisted in the United States Coast Guard on 26 September 1942. He completed his recruit training at Recruit Training Station, Curtis Bay, MD, and was initially assigned to the Coastal Pickets, CG-75003 and CG-46015 on 20 November 1942. He was later transferred to LST Flotilla 8 on 11 February 1943 and assigned to USS LST-66 on 3 April 1943. While a part of LST-66’s crew, he was promoted to signalman third class on 1 November 1943.
Gerczak was on board USS LST-66 during the initial assault against the Japanese-held Borgen Bay Area of New Britain on Dec. 26, 1943. As seven Japanese dive bombers suddenly attacked his ship as it stood in the bay awaiting other vessels then unloading cargo on the beach, Gerczak immediately manned his battle station and was the first to open fire. When the planes came in and struck from starboard, he poured his drums of ammunition into the attackers with unrelenting fury, blasting two from the sky and into the sea near his vessel. With his ship struck by bomb fragments each bursting successively closer, he dauntlessly continued delivering a steady stream of bullets against the enemy until he was fatally struck down by a violent blast which forced shrapnel into his gun shield and silenced his weapon. By his expert marksmanship, unwavering perseverance, and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds, he contributed to the success of this and previous assault and reinforcement landings during the New Guinea Campaign. His constant devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.
In recognition for having gallantly given his life for his country, Gerczak was posthumously awarded the Silver Star. He also posthumously received the Purple Heart and the Presidential Unit Commendation that was awarded to LST-66 for meritorious service in action against the Japanese.
The cutter's sponsor is Stella Gerczak, sister of Joseph Gerczak.
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