World War II Honoree

Robert M. Petersen

Branch of Service

U.S. Navy

Hometown

Salt Lake City, Utah

Honored By

Carole Harrison

Relationship

Daughter

Participated in the battles of Leyte Gulf, Subic Bay, Mindoro, Mindanao, Manila, and Iwo Jima. After Leyte Gulf he participated in the attack on Lingayen Gulf and provided support for troop landing at Subic Bay. His squadron provided air cover for General MacArthur's return to the Philippine Islands. His job on the plane was to operate the radio and fire a 30 Cal. machine gun from his spot in the belly of the plane. For 23 days in February and March 1945, his squadron provided air support during the battle at Iwo Jima.