Godfrey, George

S1c GEORGE VERNON GODFREY 3 February 1945 to 10 June 1946

George Vernon Godfrey “Vernon” was born 26 March 1923, at Calverton, Virginia. His hair was brown and he had hazel eyes. When he was 21 years old, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy at Warrenton, Virginia. He went to boot camp 21 June 1944, at USNTC Bainbridge, Maryland and graduated with Company 3374.

Shortly thereafter he set sail on board USS FRANK E EVANS (DD 754). He was there on 3 February 1945, when she was commissioned, and when she first got underway, so he’s known as a “Plank Holder” too. Vernon served on board EVANS seeing action in the Pacific Theater during WWII. He was awarded one star for his participation in the conflict in Okinawa, Japan, and also was awarded the World War II Victory Medal. On 10 June 1946, George Vernon Godfrey was honorably discharged from the U. S. Navy at Shelton, Virginia.

Upon returning home, Vern went to work for the Federal Government. He travelled the world and saw amazing sights that were forever imbedded into his mind. For many years after his service on USS FRANK E EVANS DD-754, S1c Godfrey managed to stay best friends with a fellow shipmate, Sylva Vesta Dove Jr. For over 60 years their friendship proved to be unbreakable.

George Vernon Godfrey married Thelma Mae Sizemore of The Plains, Virginia on 16 April 1949. They had four children, to whom they were both dearly devoted. They have nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Sadly, on 2 May 2005, Vernon succumbed to a long time battle with bone cancer. He was 82 years old. He is remembered by his loving wife of 56 years and a throng of family and friends.