USS HOUSTON CA 30

“The galloping Ghost of the Java Coast”

Raymond Nickelson

MM2/c USN

Raymond Nickelson, Milan, Indiana

October 12, 1920 to March 1, 1942

Machinist Mate 2nd Class

United States Navy

U.S.S. Houston CA-30

Died as a result of the sinking of his ship during an

engagement with Japanese Naval Forces at the Battle of Sunda Strait on 1 March 1942.

Awards

Purple Heart

Presidential Unit Citation w/ 1 Star

American Defense Service Medal w/ 1 Star

World War II Victory Medal

Asiatic Pacific Area Campaign Service Ribbon w/ 2 Engagement Stars

Philippine Defense Ribbon w/Bronze Star

"Least We Forget"

October 10, 2018

Submitted by Ryan McKittrick

“      I come to you tonight with some exciting news, after a 1 year search for a photo of Machinist Mate Raymond Nickelson, KIA USS Houston, I contacted his High School in Milan Indiana and they had a class photo.  This is quite possibly the only photo of him in existence.  I have attached his photo in hopes you would add it to your crew list page.  I also did open records through the National Archives and I have his service records if any of those are needed. “

Thank you,

Ryan McKittrick

Hutto, Texas

Arthur L. "Al" Maher
USNA 1923 the "Gun Boss" Maher
Senior Surviving Officer, from the USS Houston, written to Raymond Nickelson's parents back in Milan Indiana.
Nickelson Letter