Shirley "Ole" Isadore Olson
Era: World War II
Military Branch: Navy
Shirley "Ole" Isadore Olson served in World War II in the Pacific Theater. He served in the U.S. Navy from March 24, 1945 until July 20, 1946.
Mr. Olson received his basic training at Great Lakes, Illinois, and was then assigned to the U.S.S. Clay(APA 39). (Most of the men with whom he trained were assigned to the U.S.S. Indianapolis, which was sunk by the Japanese.) He worked in the engine room.
The U.S.S. Clay participated in the invasion of Okinawa (April 1-June 22, 1945) from April 1 until April 5, 1945, then returned to the United States to be overhauled and to have an increase of armaments. On July 27, she again embarked for the Pacific. After the Japanese surrender, the U.S.S. Clay participated in occupation duties in Japan and served as a troop transport.
After his service, Mr. Olson returned to the Midwest.
Mr. Olson was born on October 12, 192_, in Steele County, North Dakota, the son of Oscar J. and Olga Olson.
Source: Veterans’ Memorial Hall Veteran History Form
