I was an Armed Guard Gunner aboard the SS Eldena in Convoy PQ-13 that arrived in Murmansk March 30, 1942. We spent a month there unloading cargo and departed April 28 for Iceland. We encountered all of the things you so aptly describe in your poem. My gun crew was credited by the Russian Government with shooting down 3 enemy bombers and was rewarded with a months pay.
On our return voyage, May 1st, my 19th birthday, the enemy tried its best to destroy the convoy and succeded in sinking several.
This winter I am planning to write an account of my Naval career with the main emphasis on the Murmansk Run. I would like your permission to include a copy of your poem in my booklet. Please let me know.
Thanks again for a wonderful poem.
John
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