Loss of Fletcher Nolan Houston, Machinist's Mate second class
Information sent in by James Grotjan, great nephew of Fletcher Nolan Houston
Mrs. Fannie Winifred Houston Armstrong, Missouri My Dear Mrs. Houston: After a full review of all available information, I am reluctantly forced to the conclusion that your son, Fletcher Nolan Houston, Machinist's Mate second class, U.S.N. is deceased, having been officially reported missing on 22 August 1942-. He was a member of the crew and serving aboard the U.S.S. INGRAHAM when that vessel collided with another vessel and sank in the North Atlantic as a result of poor visibility due to weather conditions. In accordance with Section 5 of Public Law 490, 77th Congress, as amended, your son's death is presumed to have occurred on 23 August 1943, which is the day following the day of expiration of an absence of twelve months. I extend to you my sincere sympathy in your great loss and hope you may find comfort in the knowledge that your son gave his life for his Country, upholding the highest traditions of the Navy. The Navy shares in your sense of bereavement and will feel the loss of his service. Sincerely yours,Frank Knox ![]()
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