Navy servicemen and women who served on the USS CARR (FFG52) will gather for their _rst crew reunion this Saturday in Checotah, the hometown of Paul Henry Carr, whom their ship was named for years ago.

USS CARR was named for Gunner’s Mate rd Class Paul Henry Carr, a Checotah farm boy who died courageously during the Battle O_ Samar, on Oct. 25, 1944, while serving on the USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413). Now the USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413) is the deepest known shipwreck ever discovered back in June of 2022. Even the Gunner’s mount where Paul Carr lost his life has been found in those deep, dark waters.

USS CARR, however, was an Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate of the United States Navy, which was in service from 1985 to 2013. Now former shipmates from this frigate along with their family members are meeting together for their _rst reunion at the Katy Depot starting around 12:30 p.m. on June 24.

Paul was an only son with eight sisters. Now his nieces and nephews will host the event in honor of their uncle, along with the Checotah Landmark Preservation Society.

The community is also invited to come out to the Katy and greet all these service men and women.

Plank Owner USS Carr and Paul Carr Reunion Organizer Gardner LaMarche is honored to be having the reunion in Paul Carr’s hometown. LaMarche retired from the Navy as a Master Chief Radioman in 1993 after 21 years of service, and he served onboard the US CARR from 1985 – 1989. Read more about his service in next week’s edition of the McIntosh County Democrat and how Paul Carr played a significant role in so many lives onboard the USS CARR.