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Yeoman 2nd Class
Frederick Ruckert, Jr.Frederick Ruckert, the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Ruckert of New Orleans, joined the United States Coast Guard in early 1943. Eventually attaining the rank of Yeoman 2nd class, Ruckert was assigned to LST 167 which was launched on February 25, 1943. The ship set sail for the Pacific that summer and participated in the invasion of Vella Lavella, Solomon Islands in September 1943.
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On September 25, LST 167 was attacked by three Japanese dive bombers. Their approach was not observed by the crew until the last minute. The crew responded quickly and shot down two of the three attacking aircraft. During the attack however, LST 167 suffered two direct hits. One bomb penetrated the main deck and blew through the side of the ship. The other also went through the main deck and exploded on the tank deck, igniting 1,000 gallons of gasoline and 250 drums of oil. Yeoman Ruckert was wounded during this attack and died later that day from his wounds. Seven other crewmen died during the attack.
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The helmet Ruckert was wearing at the time of his death. Gift in Memory of Frederick Ruckert, 2001.010.The helmet Ruckert was wearing at the time of his death is on display in the Island Hopping Gallery of the Road to Tokyo: Pacific Theater Galleries at The National WWII Museum. Survivors sent the helmet to his parents, who kept it as a keepsake of their lost son until their own death decades later. The marking “3”50” on the helmet indicates Ruckert's battle station – the 3-inch, 50-caliber main deck gun.
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Also on display are postcards Ruckert sent to his parents in June 1943, three months before his death.
Postcard home from Ruckert to his family. Gift in Memory of Frederick Ruckert, 2002.104.
"Dear Folks, Just a few lines saying hello and to let you know I am feeling fine. Having a good time. Tell all hello. Love, Junior." -
Postcard home from Ruckert to his family. Gift in Memory of Frederick Ruckert, 2002.104.
"Dear Folks, Having a swell time here. Lovely scenery fit for a loafer like myself. Hope everyone is feeling fine. How's Grandfather feeling? Tell everyone hello and don't worry about me. Love, Junior" -
Gift of Shirley Ruckert, 2002.104.Marcy L. Ruckert wore this gold star pin for her only child, Frederick L. Ruckert, Jr. Gold Star Pins are worn by mothers who lost a son or daughter to war as a symbol of mourning. Gift of Shirley Ruckert.
This Memorial Day, Honor Yeoman 2nd Class Frederick Ruckert, Jr.
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