Frank Lewis
Bio
Frank Lewis was serving in his local U.S. Naval Reserves when the Korean War broke out in 1950. By April, he was one of the few who hadn’t been called to active duty, so he was sent to Norfolk, VA, and assigned to the USS Munro, a troop transport ship with 23 landing craft. His first overseas experience came aboard the Munro in Greenland, followed by deployments to the Caribbean. Although he never made it to Korea, he served as part of the 6th Fleet, operating in Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean during that time. This broad range of deployments shaped his military experience. Ultimately, his service gave him valuable exposure to global naval operations.
Video Clips
Living Conditions on a Naval Ship
Frank Lewis describes what life was like on a ship in the Navy. He explains the sleeping arrangements and states that he enjoyed the food. He argues that it was a "new way of life" in which you had to get along with a lot of people in a small space.
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Impact of Service
Frank Lewis explains how joining the Navy improved his life, teaching him to meet new people, follow orders, and become independent for the first time. He believes the service "made a man out of him," with the biggest lessons being discipline and the importance of following orders. These experiences shaped his character and instilled lifelong values.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZiP6hE-ijg&start=899&end=1077
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/frank-lewis#clip-2
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Message to Young People
Frank Lewis believes the military offers a positive experience for young people, teaching them independence by removing them from their parents' influence. He argues that it helps them stand on their own and develop self-reliance. Additionally, he sees great value in learning to follow orders, a crucial life skill.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZiP6hE-ijg&start=1272&end=1365
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/frank-lewis#clip-3
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