USS HOUSTON CA 30

“The galloping Ghost of the Java Coast”

Marvin L Bain

Born:      January 6, 1920, Bellville, AR

Married:  Rose Payne (year unknown?)

Military:  Joined US Army September 6, 1936, age 16

Joined US Navy 1939, Served on cruiser USS Houston

USS Houston sunk February 1942, Marvin reported missing

Marvin was one of only 300 survivors of the crew of 1100

Prisoner in Japanese POW camp until August 19, 1945

Remained in Navy, retiring 1956

Rank at retirement - Chief Gunner's Mate

Prisoner of War Records