Lt. Comdr. Patterson
W. C. Doctor Is Awarded Bronze Star
Lt. Comdr. Roy A. Patterson, Webster City physician now on terminal leave from naval service, received a fine Christmas present Monday when he was notified by the navy department that he had received the bronze star medal.
The commander was given the high award “for meritorious achievement as medical officer on a transport on May 26, 1945, during the assault on Okinawa Shima,” the accompanying citation reads.
“After his ship had undergone heavy enemy air attack and severe casualties were suffered, he with outstanding professional skill administered successful medical care to the wounded despite difficult conditions. Through his determination and outstanding leadership, he contributed immeasurably to the saving of many lives. His conduct throughout distinguished him among those performing duties of the same character.”
The citation was signed by Admiral R. K. Turney of the United States Navy.
Commander Patterson was serving aboard the USS Sandoval off Okinawa during the action the citation mentions. The ship was hit by enemy suicide planes with resulting heavy damage. The Webster City medical officer was among three officials given bronze stars for their service. Four enlisted men won commendation ribbons for their actions.
Dr. Patterson, who enlisted in the naval reserve three and one-half years ago, plans to return to general practice here after the first of the year.
His new office will be located over the Fareway store.
Source: Daily Freeman Journal, Webster City, IA - Dec. 26, 1945 (photo included)
Dr. Roy A. Patterson, 90, Webster City
Dr. Roy A. Patterson, 90, Webster City, died Jan. 20, 1993 at Hamilton County Public Hospital. Services will be 1:30 p.m. Friday at the First Baptist Church with the Rev. Donald Ripley officiating. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery. Visitation is after 5 p.m. today at the Foster Funeral Home until noon Friday when the casket will be taken to the church. Graveside military rites will be conducted by the American Legion Post No. 191.
Roy Adam Patterson, son of John and Rose (Wiley) Patterson, was born Sept. 9, 1902 at Hilton. He graduated from high school at Melcher and the University of Iowa in 1829 as a medical doctor. He completed his intern work at Broadlawns Hospital in Des Moines. In 1931, he began a practice in Webster City. He entered the U.S. Navy Medical Corps in 1942 and was discharged in 1946 as a commander. He then returned to Webster City and resumed his medical practice.
On Dec. 26, 1950, he married Elsie Mae Ringer in Webster City. The couple resided in Webster City.
He retired in 1986.
He is survived by his wife, Elsie; and brother, Bill Patterson of Blairsburg. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and one sister.
He was a member of the First Baptist Church, Acacia Lodge No. 176 A.F. and A.M., Eastern Star, American Legion, Chamber of Commerce and a former Elks Lodge member. During World War II, he was awarded the bronze star.
Source: Daily Freeman Journal, Webster City, IA - Jan. 21, 1993
