Donald Stratton

About the Author

Donald Stratton is a decorated World War II veteran whose extraordinary life at sea has inspired readers with tales of resilience and heroism. Born in 1920 in Red Cloud, Nebraska, Stratton enlisted in the U.S. Navy at the age of twenty and was aboard the USS Arizona during the devastating Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Miraculously surviving the inferno that claimed over 1,100 lives, he endured severe burns and later served with distinction in the Pacific theater, earning numerous commendations. In his later years, Stratton shared his firsthand experiences through writing, offering a poignant glimpse into one of history's pivotal moments. His memoir not only recounts the chaos and camaraderie of naval service but also honors the sacrifices of his fallen shipmates, ensuring their stories endure for future generations.