September 18, 2000
As “Bud” Robinson’s neighbor for the past thirteen years and a 1958 to 1962 “Navy Vet”, I consider myself fortunate. Not too many people can claim to have “been there”. Arthur Robinson is one. Then and now come together, with the SoDak community, in preserving the memories of and sacrifices made by so many whom fought to give us what we enjoy today. I sit in awe listening to his stories of “Then”. I would feel remiss if, even in a small way, I did not share some of his reflections with the BB57 family.
Arthur Robinson, Leading Seaman Quartermaster, “N” Division, went aboard the U.S.S. South Dakota (BB57) on 23 March 1942 and left 26 January 1945, after ten engagements. As many, during their service time, he became known by names other than that given when they popped into this world. His were Bud, Stretch and Speed. Got “Bud” from his mother, “Stretch” from his appearance (6’3”+ tall and all of 170+ pounds) and “Speed” from when he, one day, had been asked to pick up a car for “Officer Transport”. On arrival at the gangway he was coming in a little fast and skidded in the sand and gravel before coming to a stop. At this, the Executive Officer, who was waiting for the car, remarked, “Who do you think you are, Barney Olfield? After that, he was “Speed” Robinson.
Speed was Helmsman for two years and had the wheel for most bombardments/engagements, as well as all refueling from Tankers and to Cruisers. He was wounded during the Guadalcanal engagement while on lookout at one of the seven stations above the conning tower. These rectangular openings, three forward, two to port and two to starboard, can be seen in the superstructure above the conning tower, the overhanging structure above the bridge. A shell passed under his seat, which looked like a bicycle seat on an arm that swung out from the bulkhead. The shell killed a shipmate behind him and cut the steam line going to the ship’s whistle. He received steam burns on his arms and hands, as well as shrapnel in his left leg. Two years later, Speed was awarded the Purple Heart, which was presented by Admiral Hanson. Speed recounted some tales including not quite so secret “Crew Brewed Concoctions” and the “Open Safe Incident”.
Although heard secondhand, the “Safe” story, fact or fiction, was still humorous. After the Guadalcanal engagement, battle damage was being assessed. In officers’ quarters, an open safe was found (not sure if Navy issue). It wasn’t clear if the safe was opened by a “Concerned Individual” during the battle or opened by an “Unconcerned Enemy Shell”. Who really knows? The contents were found to be medicinal in nature (between 90 & 100 proof). Speed heard some of the contents were damaged, but some was salvaged. Apparently, according to scuttlebutt, all concerned had a good time. No one was ever “Put On Report”. Should anybody wish to ask questions, swap stories or just plain reminisce, contact “Bud”, Speed” or “Stretch” at the address below: Arthur Robinson 54 Grand St.
Highland, NY 12528
For those who feel more comfortable with the internet, pass on a message to me,
John Wade (jawade@address.com), and I will see that he gets it. |
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