World War II Honoree

Bernard Gacka

Branch of Service

U.S. Navy

Hometown

Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Honored By

Paul Gacka

Relationship

Son

AT THE AGE OF 29, AFTER THE ATTACK ON PEARL HARBOR, HE ENLISTED IN THE WAR EFFORT ALONG WITH HIS TWIN BROTHER. HE SERVED AS A CHIEF PETTY OFFICER IN THE TIN CAN DESTROYER FLEET IN THE PACIFIC. AS A GUNNER'S MATE ON THE USS O'BANNON, HE REPLACED AMMUNITION IN THE DECK GUNS DURING BATTLES. HE WAS REGARDED BY HIS FELLOW SAILORS AS ONE OF THE MOST TRUSTED MEN ON THE SHIP. BEFORE RETURNING HOME FROM WAR, HE PLAYED IN THE NAVY BASEBALL LEAGUES WHERE HE WAS AN OUTSTANDING PLAYER.