"I was blessed 14 years ago to meet a surviving boat mate of my Uncle Izzy.  I never realized before that boatmates from previous patrols would be alive that knew my Uncle.  He told many stories that showed what a great guy he was.  He said he remembered my Uncle eating bacon on kitchen patrol and told him: 'Izzy you can't eat that.'  My Uncle asked why and he said: 'that's bacon.'  Uncle Izzy was Jewish and he said: 'well it tastes good.'  He also said he went on shore leave with my Uncle and the boat steward (William Shelton), who was black.  The bouncer at a bar wouldn't let the black sailor in, so they threw the bouncer into the street.

 

We love you Uncle Izzy and thank you so much for your sacrifice.  You are one of the reasons I chose to make a career in the military."

Great Nephew: Chris Grazzini Colonel USAF (Retired) - wendigrizz@msn.com