Interview with John E. Barrows, September 8, 1986

Interview Summary

John E. Barrows was a carrier pilot in the Navy. As part of the 28th and 84th dive-bombing squadrons, he served aboard the USS Chenango and the USS Bunker Hill. Barrows participated in the Okinawa campaign as part of Task Force 58, and he describes his bombing missions, the mass of American forces, and a kamikaze attack on his ship. He also participated in missions in Guadalcanal and other Pacific islands, which he describes in lesser detail. Barrows discusses flying in general; comments on his more harrowing experiences; and gives his impressions of several military leaders, including Admiral William "Bull" Halsey. He concludes with general reflections and brief biographical information.

Interview Keyword

military service experience War Veterans World War II World War II veterans

Interview LC Subject

Barrows, John E. Barrows, John E.--Interviews World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Asia World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Japan--Okinawa Island World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Solomon Islands World War, 1939-1945--East Asia World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945.

Interview Rights

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Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.