Sam Matich and the USS Bush   DD529

Click for link to the official USS Bush website.

This is Sam, who for most of my life I've referred to as my "first dad". Here he is as an Ensign in the Navy. He and mom got married after WW2, and I was adopted by them as a newborn. He died of a massive heart attack when I was 5 years old.

The USS Bush. Sam served as the Asst. 1st Lieutenant, helping run the Deck division. The Bush saw much action, and was lost 4-6-45 after being hit by 3 Kamikazes

Death of the Bush. As the Colhoun steams by, the sinking Bush is partially visible in the smoke. The Colhoun was lost in this same action. This is 4-6-45 at Radar picket Station #1, off Okinawa.

Some of the surviving officers. Sam is top row, far right.

This is Sam after crossing the equator and being made a "shellback".