DE CLASSIFIED

Frank Slater, our namesake, served aboard the heavy cruiser USS SAN FRANCISCO CA-38. He lost his life when a plane, already ignited, bore into the 20mm battery he was manning. Frank and the rest of the gun crew were still firing when the plane smashed directly into their positions. The fuselage warped the splinter plating, and the wings splashed flaming gasoline over the ship. The burning Betty caromed off SAN FRANCISCO's superstructure and splashed into the sea. The dead included every member of the four 20mm crews.

Eleven of these men have Destroyer Escorts named in their honor: William F. Cates, George R. Eisele, George I. Falgout, Andrew J. Gandy, Eugene F. George, Albert T. Harris, Harry J. Lowe, Jackson K. Loy, William T. Powell, John L. Williamson, and Frank O. Slater. Hear the story of SAN FRANCISCO and her brave crew this month on DE Classified.

While you’re here, use the transcript and bibliography to follow along, and take a look at the photos below.

If you like what you hear and can help us out by making a donation, we appreciate every dollar we receive! Donations are used to restore, preserve, and educate the public about USS SLATER. 

USS SLATER is a private not-for-profit museum that receives no regular support from New York State, the federal government, or the US Navy. We are funded by private donations, ticket sales, and merchandise sales. 

Thanks for listening and lending your support!

See you next month!