Montandon, F.L. 1989-03-26
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General Interview Information
Interviewee Name: F.L. Montandon
Additional Parties Recorded:
Date: March 26, 1989
Location:
Interviewer: Abel Ramirez
Length: 00:58:48
Abstract
F.L. Montandon was born in December of 1921 in Rochester, Texas. When World War II started he was a FT student at Texas Technological College. He received a draft notice before he enlisted. He received the notice in the Spring of 1942. It was not for immediate service. He could finish that semester of school before enlisting. He wanted to be in the Navy so he enlisted in the naval reserve. Montandon said that some instructors at Texas Technological College were called to duty. His horticulture class listened to Presedent Roosevelt's speech when he declared war. He was 20 years old at the time and felt fear after hearing the numbers of deaths and injuries. It was also unpleasant for his parents. In July of 1942 he went to Arlington, Texas for 12 weeks of basic training held at North Texas State Agricultural College. It was a Jr. College designated for military officer training. The training consisted of refresher courses in math, physics, etc. + physical training. He then went to Norfolk, Virginia where he waiting for four weeks so the whole class could graduate. His rank was Lt. Jr. Grade when he separated from the Navy. They were known as Cadets when in OT (Officer Training) school. Montandon spent four months at Northwestern University for naval training where they studied navigation, naval techniques, and what to expect. They had to remain single during the four month training period. He got married shortly after. He had 2 weeks leave then he reported to San Diego. He was on a transport ship that carried troops and equipment to the war zone. The transport ship also had four 3" guns and one 5" cannon. They were also armed with anti-aircraft machine guns. The ship had landing craft for amphibious landings. 350 troops were normal but could carry up to 500. The ship mainly carried trucks, tanks, and jeeps. It stored food supplies and ammunition. It supplied troops ashore and other battle ships, destroyers, and excort ships. The convoy would have up to 16 cargo ships, 4-5 destroyer/escort ships, and have a cruiser if more than 16 cargo ships. It would take them 2 days to unload troops
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