Frog Search:

Shortly after the publication of the last issue of Fifties Frogs we received an email from Donna (Roe) Buyer asking for information about her father John Roe. Her request was sent to a long list of FROGS/SEALs and your response was gratifying. Many of you answered and it turns out that he was much admired and respected by those who knew him.

Franklin Anderson is writing a biography on him and we look forward to reading it. Below is a request for further assistance on John Roe.

Attached is a Photo that I received from Donna Roe Buyer---She is John Roe's daughter.  I am in the process of writing a BIO on LCDR ROE, and need some help in identifying personnel in the picture---It was taken on 6 Aug. 54 at Camp McGill.  It was an awards ceremony for UDT-12 SOFTBALL Championship.

The two on the upper left were Col. Jacob Reynolds and Commodore Clarence Coffin Commander of Naval Beach Group---In those days the UDT's came under the Beachgroup.  John Roe is in the first row - right side.  Can you help identify the men in UDT-12?

Also I would be interested in any factual stories and photo's that you may
Have that are  related to Roe in the early fifties.   John Roe went thru training in l952 and was assigned as XO of UDT-3, which later became UDT-12.  He was CO of UDT-12 from February 54 to August 55 at which time he detached and became CO Underwater Swim School in Key West, then in January l958 he became CO of UDT-11, relieving Doug Fane--LCDR Roe upon retirement went to work for Kerr McGee in Morgan City and hired many of the old frogs in his diving operation.

Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated.  Thanks – Franklin Anderson.

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