Captain George Folta bravely served his country during World War II, appearing in numerous Pacific engagements, including several of the war’s signature battles.
Born in Juneau, Alaska, on February 4, 1919, Folta graduated high school in his hometown and worked one year in the mines before attending University of Washington. After one year at college, Folta accepted an appointment to the United States Naval Academy. Upon graduation, he was immediately assigned to the USS Aylwin, which played key roles in the Battle of the Coral Sea and the Battle of Midway. The monumental victories paved the way for ultimate triumph in the Pacific.
Emerging from both historic battles unscathed, Folta went to submarine school in Connecticut and was assigned to the USS Bluegill, making six successful war patrols. After the war, Folta continued his naval studies, attending U.S. Naval Graduate School and then becoming the Executive Officer of the USS Medregal. From there, the industrious sailor became the Chief Engineer of the USS Antietam, which was the first aircraft carrier in the world to have an angled deck.
In 1958, Folta was part of another unique first, serving as the Executive Officer of the USS Boston, the first ship in the world to carry guided missiles. But Folta wasn’t done seeing military action. During the Vietnam War, he commanded the USS Monticello, helping to transport weaponry and marines into battle. He retired from the Navy in 1969.
Captain Folta passed away on December 26, 2003, and was buried at sea with full military honors.
Labels: Executive Officer, George Folta, military action
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