Frank Slater, our namesake, served aboard heavy cruiser USS SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38). He lost his life when a plane, already ignited, bore into the 20 mm battery he was manning. Frank and the rest of the gun crew were still firing when the plane smashed directly into their positions. The fuselage warped the splinter plating and the wings splashed flaming gasoline over the ship. The burning Betty caromed off SAN FRANCISCO's superstructure and splashed into the sea. The dead included every member of the four 20mm crews. Eleven of these men have Destroyer Escorts named in their honor: William F. Cates, George R. Eisele, George I. Falgout, Andrew J. Gandy, Eugene F. George, Albert T. Harris, Harry J. Lowe, Jackson K. Loy, William T. Powell, John L. Williamson, and Frank O. Slater. Hear the story of SAN FRANCISCO and her brave crew this month on DE Classified.Follow along with our transcript and check out the photos on our website. If you like what you hear and are able to help us out by leaving a donation, we appreciate every dollar we are given! Donations are used to restore, preserve, and educate the public about USS SLATER and Destroyer Escorts. USS SLATER is a private not-for-profit museum that receives no regular support from New York State, the federal government, or the US Navy. We are funded by private donations, ticket, and merchandise sales. Thanks for listening and lending your support!Support the showSupport the show