Dedicated to the honor and memory of the men who sailed as prisoners of the Japanese aboard the merchant vessel Oryoku Maru on December 13, 1944.

In memory of Lt. Walter A. Kelso Jr.

11/27/17 - 2/4/45

I wish to thank the countless people who encouraged me through the years to keep after this effort. The work on this site is by no means complete. Through the internet and the dedication of several individuals the story gets more complete as time goes on.

Special recognition goes to Professor James Erickson for his "crunching" of the information and turning it into some semblance of order. His work and research are worthy of praise. Without his efforts the picture wouldn't be as clear and understandable. Gig Em Jim.

Through the years I've met many individuals who were on the Oryoku or are descendants of these men. I've come to know and admire you greatly. Some of you are no longer with us and I feel it a privilege to have known and shared time with you.

Maj. Richard Gordon +
Col. Jack Heinzel +
Bill Parks +
Ken Wheeler +
Mel Rosen +
Harold "Gunner" Ferrell +
Maynard Booth +
Duane Heisinger +

Fr. Robert Phillips, Warren and Ruthie Jorgenson, Art Beale, John Lewis, Henry Neiger, Jan Thompson, Nancy Kragh, and so many others of you that I've come to know and consider family.

Last Update 11/27/2007

©2007 Mark A. Kelso