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James Edward Weaver
from the USS CABOT(CVL-28)
James Edward Weaver
Grove City, Ohio
1/4/2012 - 7:41 AM
Over the past few days, I've learned that James Edward Weaver was involved in the removal of the injured and deceased aboard CVA-20 on that tragic day in May of 1954.
I chatted with Jim for well over an hour about his efforts to save as many individuals as he possibly could.
James Edward Weaver is 78 years old now and resides in Grove City, Ohio.
He was being discharged on 26 May 1954 from the USS CABOT(CVL-28) when a call was made for any individual(s) that would like to help out in assisting with a Navy carrier that had an explosion and was heading into port (Quonset Point, Rhode Island) to off-load the dead and injured.
Jim had no association to or with the BENNINGTON but as he was a pipe fitter 3rd class and had knowledge of the areas in question, he immediately volunteered and was brought to BENNINGTON and immediately put to work below decks.
Without an OBA or any other breathing apparatus, he continually sought out the injured and deceased bringing them to the Hanger Bay (which was a temporary hospital triage area and morgue).
A grueling task for many hours!
One can only imagine what he personally witnessed but his conversation with me was as though it just happened.
Gruesome in every detail given................
Joe Pires, historian
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In recognition of his efforts and his keeping with the traditions and highest standards set by the United States Navy,
We, the board of directors of the USS Bennington Association, feel that he is more than a worthy candidate for being made an Honorary Life Member.
We therefore, by unanimous vote, declare James Edward Weaver an Honorary Life Member of the USS Bennington Association with full member privileges.
Bill Copeland, President USS Bennington Association,
and the full board of directors
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