Members of USS Houston Survivors Association and Next Generations view exhibit
On Friday, March 14th, the UH Libraries hosted a reception for members of the USS Houston Survivors Association and the Next Generations, who were visiting Houston for their annual reunion. The organization was established in 1946 to bring together surviving crew members of the heavy cruiser USS Houston (CA-30), who had fought together in the Battle of the Java Sea, and spent 3 1/2 years together as prisoners of war. In 1981, the Survivors Association donated to the Libraries a set of historic documents, letters, photographs, and memorabilia which became known as the Cruiser Houston Collection.
Bill Ingram, former crew member of the USS Houston (CA-30)
In attendance this year were survivors Bill Ingram and Howard Brooks. Ingram was the second youngest crew member on the ship, having enlisted in the Navy at seventeen. Many family members of other Houston crew members were also present, as well as historian Don Kehn, author of A Blue Sea of Blood: Deciphering the Mysterious Fate of the USS Edsall. The group enjoyed the opportunity to view the USS Houston Exhibition, have some cake and lemonade, and relax in the camaraderie of longtime friends.
Teresa Reilly, widow of John D. Reilly, with Howard Brooks, former crew member of the USS Houston (CA-30)
UH Special Collections wishes Howard Brooks a speedy recovery after his recent fall.
USS Houston Survivors Association and the Next Generations historian Don Kehn
Fred Hekking, Special Collections student worker Bryan Bishop, Jerry Ranger, and Bill Ingram