Skipper's Page

Margil LeRoy "Mike" Stokes, born in Forest, Mississippi, left high school to join the U. S. Navy on October 18, 1924.  He went to Boot camp in San Diego.  After "Boots" he started his career as a "Tin Can" sailor.  Tin Can is Navy slang for a Destroyer (DD).  He subsequently served on a total of eleven Destroyers, two Destroyer Tenders, one Light Cruiser, one Ocean Rescue Tug, one Mechanized Artillery Transport, one Amphibious Force Command Ship and last but not least one LST (LST 933).  He began his career as a Signalman striker.  He made Signalman 3rd Class in 1927.  From there he went to SM2c in 1930 and on to SM1c in 1935.  During this time he often functioned as and was trained as a Quartermaster.  In 1938 he was promoted to Chief Quartermaster.  After World War II broke out he was promoted to Boatswain (Warrant), then in 1943 he was promoted to Ensign.  Upon assuming command of LST 933 he was promoted to Lieutenant (jg).  Later came his final rank of Lieutenant. Of the numerous citations and campaign ribbons received, his favorite was the Bronze Star.  The citation on that award is as follows:        The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the BRONZE STAR MEDAL to                        LIEUTENANT MARGIL LEROY STOKES                                 UNITED STATES NAVY for service as set forth in the following        CITATION:                    "For meritorious service as Commanding Officer of LST-933 in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Southwest Pacific Area from January to August 1945.  By his forceful leadership and untiring efforts throughout this period, Lieutenant (then Lieutenant, Junior Grade) Stokes contributed in large measure to the success of his LST in carrying out numerous amphibious assault landing and supply operations.  His devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service." Lieutenant Stokes is authorized to wear the Combat "V"                                                            For the President,                                                             s/ James Forrestal                                                            Secretary of the Navy After his release from active duty in 1946 he began his next career with the Sweetwater Union High School District in Southern California.  Starting out in the Maintenance Shop he soon became the Assistant Purchasing Agent.  After twenty years with the schools, he retired again.  He was fortunate in that he lived another twenty years in retirement, enjoying golf and travelling.