Aggressive and determined throughout numerous bombing, rocket, and mine-laying missions, the members of Torpedo Squadron 16, repeatedly defied intense Japanese antiaircraft fire from guns of all caliber while pressing home vigorous attacks against hostile bases and vital shipping. Their expert airmanship, indomitable fighting spirit, cool courage in the face of terrific opposition, and unwavering devotion to duty throughout, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

By late summer, 1944 Fred and Bill found themselves back in the United States, where their duty station was Jacksonville, Florida, the place where just two years earlier, they trained together to become aviation cadets. Their dreams and ambitions as Navy pilots had been largely fulfilled, in some cases, more than they could have imagined. Thus began a gradual transition process for their return to the challenges and routines of civilian life.