Gibbs Shipyard Heroes: a Virtual Cemetery

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Gibbs Shipyard Heroes

THE STARBOARD SIDE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION SHIPWORKERS ASSOCIATION SOUTH JACKSONVILLE, FLA., FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15, 1943 At 1:38 P.M. on Wednesday, October 6, 1943, the hand of fated rested on the men of the Repair Division of the Gibbs Gas Engine Company.The explosion of a gasoline barge caused the death of men we knew and loved. Whatever words we can offer now, whatever deeds we do now, these we offer to the Loved ones of our brothers, to show them that their sorrow is our sorrow.These men died trying to save the lives of their Comrades who were in distress and who needed their help. No force on earth could have kept them from trying. They were brave men and soldiers, though their uniforms were but overalls.To the men in hospitals, to the men who rest at home, and to those who walk with lesser wounds—who escaped with their lives, we offer no less honor—we are grateful to Almighty God that these men were spared. The Courage, Loyalty, and Brotherly Love shown by the men of Gibbs makes us proud to know that we are part of such a group of men.(Note: I have not found graves of the following three men who also died in this accident: Robert Wilson O'Brien; Robert Dixon Burt; Amon Oliver Griffin.)