Mike Poldoski
Era: Persian Gulf
Military Branch: Navy
Mike Poldoski Mr. Poldoski served in the Global War on Terror. Specifically, he served near Baghdad in Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm for three months.
His rank was Seaman, and he served aboard the refitted WWII battleship USS Missouri. He worked on the flight deck, where helicopters ferried in supplies and sailors. When at battle stations, Poldoski was a “rammerman,” meaning he shoved shells and powder into the ship’s 16-inch guns.
Mr. Poldoski served in the U.S. Navy for four years. Subsequently he served in a Naval Reserve unit in Superior, Wisconsin.
Mr. Poldoski is the son of Michael and Nancy Poldoski of Duluth, Minnesota. He graduated from Duluth Central High School.
Source: Duluth News Tribune, July 4, 1991 (see below)
“Mike Poldoski of Duluth, Minnesota got out of the gulf was just after it heated up, but he was there long enough to experience the rush of battle and the anxiety of war.
“Poldoski, a seaman on the battleship USS Missouri, was taken off the ship February 7 and brought home by the Navy. His four-year tour was up, and it was time to go home.
“Since then, the 23-year old Poldoski has had a lot of time to reflect on his three months of duty in Operation Desert Storm. While on board the World War II-vintage Missouri, he staffed the flight deck where helicopters ferried in supplies and sailors.
“When at battle stations, Poldoski was a ‘rammerman,’ shoving shells and powder into the ship’s giant 16-inch guns.
“Poldoski–the son of Michael and Nancy Poldoski of Duluth–was on board long enough to see the Missouri fire its Tomahawk cruise missiles at Baghdad.
“Once home, he saw news reports of his ship coming under fire from Iraqi missiles. He also saw the giant guns he once had loaded firing on enemy positions.
“He’s not the sentimental or overly patriotic type, Poldoski said. He’s no war hero, but there’s still a sense of relief from coming home safe and sound.
“Poldoski, a 1986 graduate of Central High School, didn’t leave the Navy behind completely. He’s now serving in a Naval Reserve unit in Superior. “
