Stewart Abbott Fraser transcript

Collection — Container: Single Folder Collections - 2001 Box 17 (01.0421-01.0444), Folder: 01.0439 - Folder 1

Identifier: 01.0439

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This oral history transcript relates to Stewart Abbott Fraser who served in the U.S. Navy during World War II in the Pacific Theater. Fraser served aboard the USS Missouri. Fraser was also present during the formal Japanese surrender on September 2, 1945

Dates

Event: 1941-1946
Created: Date of taped Interview

Creator

Stewart Abbott Fraser, 1928-2006 (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open to all researchers.

Conditions Governing Use

All requests for permission to quote, publish, broadcast or otherwise reproduce from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the Associate Dean for Special Collections & Archives. Permission for publication is given on behalf of the Florida State University Libraries as the owner of the physical items and is not intended to include or imply permission of the copyright holder, which must also be obtained by the researcher.

Biographical or Historical Information

Stewart Abbott Fraser was born February 1, 1928, in Andover, Massachusetts. During World War II, he attempted to join the military before of legal age to enlist, including a plan to run away to Canada to join the Royal Air Force. Fraser joined the U.S. Navy in 1945, only a few days after turning 17. Fraser completed his Naval training in Sampson, NY. He was then sent to Treasure Island, California to the USS General C. H. Muir. From there Fraser traveled to Pearl Harbor and then to Leyte, Philippines to transfer to the USS Missouri. Fraser's first assignment would be to the turrets, however, would be reassigned to the executive officer's office doing clerical work. Fraser's battle station was on the bridge of the USS Missouri where he would have a conversation between, the Presidents nephew, Joseph Truman and Admiral Halsey about the food being served. Fraser would also be present during a conversation between Admiral Halsey and General MacArthur regarding proper uniform etiquette during the Japanese surrender aboard the USS Missouri. After the war, Fraser worked for the Pentagon, Army Department of Operations. Fraser was recalled to duty on June 27, 1950, for the Korean War. Fraser received two battle stars and a Pacific ribbon during his eight and a half years of service. He passed away on September 1, 2006.