The Mark XIV Torpedo is a story of two shipmates from many years ago. Harvey Visnaw was born May 4, 1924. Enlisting in the U. S. Navy at age 17 on November 27, 1941 shortly before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. During World War II, he served on 4 different ships and saw extensive combat in the Pacific Island campaign. On one occasion, his ship was hit by a Japanese kamikaze plane resulting in the deaths of 14 shipmates. When the war ended, Harvey was discharged and moved to Houston, Texas where he joined the Navy Reserve. In 1950, he moved back home to Saginaw, Michigan. He was then called back to active duty for the Korean Conflict. He was ordered to the USS Cunningham, DD-752 where he served as a cook. It was here that he met Tommy Walker and started a friendship that lasted over 60 years. Harvey retired in 1984 having served in the Navy, Air Force Reserves, and Navy Seabee Reserves. He stated, “I loved serving in the U. S. military and serving my country.”
Tommy Walker was born on July 2, 1931. He grew up in Chesnee and enlisted in the U. S. Navy on July 10, 1950. He was ordered to the USS Cunningham, DD-752 and worked below decks in the engine room. During the Korean conflict, he saw combat duty off the coast of Korea. It was during this time that he met Harvey Visnaw. He was discharged on May 13, 1954 and returned to Chesnee and started his own business. Tommy has been a long time member of American Legion Post #48. Tommy’s friendship with Harvey Visnaw resulted in Harvey donating the equipment seen in front of the building to Post #48. We are extremely proud to have him as a member
As arrived at the Post
The pad has been prepared and is ready.
Junior Littlejohn working on the installation
Cartridge fired depth charge without the depth charge attached.
