John Dale Roth

John D. Roth was born August 11, 1925, in York, Nebraska. He was the son of John L. and Mollie Amalie (Meisner) Roth, who were of German ancestry, born in Russia. A long time resident, John moved to Ottawa, in Franklin County, Kansas, in 1952, where he made his home, until his death Monday, November 7, 2005, at the age of eighty years. John worked thirty-five years as a security officer for Hercules Sunflower Ammunition Plant in DeSoto, retiring December 31, 1986. He joined the United States Navy on his 17th birthday, August 11, 1942. He served as a Seaman First Class during World War II, until August of 1946, and again from March of 1948 until January of 1950. He served four years on the USS Colorado as a Gunner's Mate. He also served on the USS San Juan and USS Tryon. He was a Purple Heart recipient, as well as commendations and citations including Asiatic Pacific Area, 6 Stars; American Area; Philippine Liberation, 1 Star; Victory Medal World War II; and Good Conduct Medal. He was a member of First United Methodist Church and life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Memorial Post #5901, serving four years as trustee, with three years as House Committee; Warren Black Post #60, American Legion, serving as Vice Commander and Commander; and life member of the USS Colorado Alumnae. On July 7, 1949, John was united in marriage with Dorothy