A BTT - ENS Gay had a front-row seat for the turning point in the Pacific war after every one of his VT-8 squadron mates including his rear gunner had died. When at last he died in 1994 he had his ashes scattered on that spot.
Once witnessed a veteran of the Battle of the Bulge being told at ~age 85 that he had lung cancer and not very long to live. He just nodded. The doctor wanted to be sure he really had understood what had just been said. The man replied that he understood but explained that although he survived into old age, the best people he knew died young in Europe. He just stoically accepted the diagnosis. Truly a great man and a privilege to have known him. These noble veterans never forget and often haunting details and memories are known only to them.
I met Ensign Gay in late 70’s at an air show at Willow Grove NAS, PA. Being on bicycle at the time, I didn’t have enough cash to buy his book. But I got to shake his hand; a very proud moment for me.
But on the same day, a young boy entered a jet fighter cockpit and ejected himself. He passed away. His family seen him die. Still bothers me today because I witnessed his death. Can’t recall the outcome of the Naval investigation.