| Message | My farther Carl N. Burgard was 75 years old at the time of his death on March 20, 1999. Carl was one of 288 survivors of the USS Houston (CA-30) Blue Bonnet know as "The Galloping Ghost of the Java Coast". Carl was a Chief Bousomate for the USS Houston. After the USS Houston was hit, Carl was pickup by the Japanese and taken prisoner "Missing in Action" for 3 1/2 years. Each strip on his left sleeve represents 4 years, the 5th red strip earned him the 5th gold, this showed his detication to his country. Carl became hardened after his return from the war,he had many illness that followed which made his life unbearable to live, but he continued to fight to servive inspite of all his pains. Inside Carl was a man of gold and unforgettable memories. Anyone who has any other information or knew of him, your contact would be greatly appreciated. God Bless all who lives in rememberance of our lost loved ones and those few remaining suvivors. Let us never forget! |