Remembering Bob Batterson

RETIRED U.S. NAVY CAPTAIN, VOLUNTEER AT THE USS LEXINGTON MUSEUM

Captain Robert E. "Bob" Batterson (USN Retired) was more than just a veteran; he was a living link to history, a dedicated volunteer, and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. A Pearl Harbor survivor, naval aviator, and longtime volunteer aboard the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay, Bob spent decades honoring the memory of his fellow servicemen. His story is one of resilience, duty, and unwavering devotion to his country and community.

In 1939, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, seeking opportunity during the difficult years of the Great Depression. After recruit training at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, he was assigned to the USS Philadelphia (CL-41) in the Pacific Fleet before being stationed ashore at Naval Station Pearl Harbor just eight months before the infamous attack on December 7, 1941. Witnessing history firsthand, Bob recalled waking up that Sunday morning to the deafening sound of planes flying overhead, assuming at first it was just another drill. But when torpedo planes flew past his barracks, he and his fellow sailors quickly realized:

“We knew then we were at war—it wasn’t a drill."

Determined to continue serving in a greater capacity, Bob applied for flight training when the opportunity was extended to enlisted personnel. He earned his wings as a Naval Aviator in September 1944 at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi. Following fighter training in the F6F Hellcat at Daytona Beach, he joined Fighter Squadron ONE aboard the USS Bennington (CV-20), where he served until the war ended. Bob continued his distinguished career in the Navy’s Supply Corps, ultimately retiring in 1974. After retiring from the Navy, Bob settled in Corpus Christi, where he devoted himself to both his faith and his community, but despite his many commitments, one of Bob’s greatest joys was volunteering aboard the USS Lexington Museum.

“This ship is the sister ship of the aircraft carrier I flew from in World War II, so every time I come aboard this ship, it’s like coming home," he said."

For over 30 years, he shared his knowledge and experiences with visitors from across the country and around the world, ensuring that the legacy of those who served in World War II was never forgotten. Bob’s dedication to the USS Lexington was unparalleled. He was among the original volunteers when the museum was established, and he took immense pride in the city of Corpus Christi winning the bid to bring the ship to its shores.

“The city was in competition with five other cities to get this ship. When Corpus Christi won, it was just unbelievable. I was going to get to come aboard the ol’ Lex and serve as a volunteer—the same ship, really, that I served aboard during the war."

Even in his later years, Bob remained steadfast in his commitment to the Lexington. Shortly before his 101st birthday, he reflected on the "yeoman job she did against the enemy in World War II" and vowed that as long as the ship was around, he would make sure no one forgot it.

On August 11, 2023, at the age of 102, Captain Robert E. "Bob" Batterson passed away, leaving behind a profound legacy as the last known Pearl Harbor survivor in the Coastal Bend area. His life was a testament to the power of service, dedication, and remembrance. Through his work with the USS Lexington Museum, his contributions to his faith, and his unwavering commitment to preserving history, Bob ensured that the sacrifices of his fellow servicemen would never be forgotten. His story will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us all of the courage and resilience of the Greatest Generation.

Captain Bob Batterson’s Education and Devotion to the Church:

Bachelor of Science degree, Ohio State University
Master’s Degree from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School
Served for 10 years as the Fiscal Officer for the Diocese of Corpus Christi under Bishops Drury and Gracida
Earned the Papal Medal Pro-Ecclesia Et Pontifice in 1984 for his dedicated service to the Church.
Served as a lector, Eucharistic minister, and a leader in financial and fundraising efforts for various parish ministries.
Grand Commander of Alhambra Baza Caravan #78 and a Fourth-Degree member of the Knights of Columbus.