- Name: John Romain Vaudrin
- Location of Birth: Yakima, Washington
- Date of Birth: August 12, 1949
- Date of Death:
- Parents: Noel and Floraine Vaudrin
- High School and Class: 12th grade
- College:
- Highest Rank: E3 (Electrician 3rd Class Petty Officer)
- Branch: Navy
- Other Branch:
- Date Sworn In: October 28, 1968
- Place Sworn In: Federal Building, St. Paul, Minnesota
- Date of Discharge: August 5, 1970
- Place of Discharge: Long Beach, California
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Units and Locations:
Start Date End Date Unit(s) and Location(s) Served October, 1968 January, 1969 Boot Camp at San Diego, California September, 1969 August, 1970 Was on USS Collett DD-730 - Military Awards:
Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea)
National Defense Service Medal
Vietnam Service Medal - Military Highlights:
My job, or M.O., was a Machinist Mate working on pumps and engines which the ship was ran by steam. Our ship was one of four ships that were assigned to escort the Coral Sea, an aircraft carrier, to Vietnam. So anyway, at one time out at sea, one of the helicopters from the carrier went down and we picked up the survivors, which no one was hurt. So the carrier gave us a 55 gallon of real ice cream. Life was good out at sea. We also got caught in a bad storm and we were taking 45 degree rolls. The ship mate on the carrier said our ship looked like a bobber. What a ride! I also was able to see a lot of different countries--it sure makes you appreciate where you come from. Thank you Lord for bringing me home safe!
When I went aboard the USS Collett DD-730, which is a destroyer, it was in dry docks. Which means it was getting redone or overhauled so that it would be sea worthy again. So we escorted the Coral Sea to Vietnam. It was called West Pack Cruise. Each ship took their turn shooting inland and the planes from the carrier did the duties as well. I was proud to have a part in serving my country and be able to attend my Navy reunions. I get to be with my shipmates and talk about those days and I will never ever forget either one. God Bless my Brothers! - Wars Involved:
Vietnam Era - MIA / POW:
- Civilian Life:
- Tribal Affiliation(s):