As 100th birthday approaches, Halpaus recalls close calls in WWII
Harvey Halpaus of Lake City turns 100 years old on Aug. 25, but he still has vivid memories of his trip around the world almost 80 years ago.
During World War II, Halpaus worked as a U.S. Merchant Marine, helping to supply U.S. armed forces fighting overseas.
Cargo vessels were appealing targets for enemy submarines. And the danger was elevated at choke points like the Strait of Gibralter.
“I was standing watch on the bow of the ship and a torpedo went by about 10 feet in front,” he said.
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