WWII Hero Who Saved Sailors from Sinking Ship Receives Tribute from Top Admiral

Geb Galle is one of the last people alive who lived through the attack on Pearl Harbor. On his 104th birthday, the U.S. Navy did something special for him. 

Admiral James Kilby, the acting chief of naval operations, sent Galle a personal letter to thank him for his outstanding military service. Galle had survived the attack on Pearl Harbor, seen the Doolittle Raid, and saved four sailors from a ship that was sinking.

Galle was a machinist's mate on the USS Nevada on December 7, 1941. It was the only battleship that fired its guns during the Japanese attack. When told to start the steam boilers, Galle moved quickly to help the ship try to leave. This was a very important move that prevented Nevada from sinking in the channel.

In later parts of the war, Galle served on the USS Northampton. He saw B-25 bombers take off during the Doolittle Raid and witnessed the ship sink during the Battle of Tassafaronga. As the ship went down, Galle disobeyed orders and helped four soldiers who were stuck behind a hatch that could not be opened.

Lynn Palmer, his daughter, said, "He did not need thanks; it was just what you did during those times."

Two sailors came to see Galle on his birthday to give Kilby's letter in person. One was a machinist's mate, and he and Galle became close because they both worked as machinists.

Kilby wrote, "America endures because of patriots like you." He said Galle's legacy showed how strong and brave the Navy was.

Galle's story is a live piece of American history that shows how bravery and sacrifice have changed the world.