- September 11, 2024
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Branch of Military: U.S. Navy
Dates of Service: 1944-1950
Rank / Occupation: Lieutenant Junor Grade / Navy Fitness Officer
Hometown: Rochester, New York
Douglas Decker enlisted in the Navy as an Apprentice Seaman and was selected for the Navy’s V-12 College Training Program, which was designed to supplement the force of commissioned officers during WWII. After graduation from the University of Rochester, New York, he received a mechanical engineering degree and was assigned to the U.S.S. Saipan aircraft carrier upon which he was placed in charge of sailor health and fitness on the high seas.
After honorably serving his country during war time, he was awarded the American Theater Medal and the WWII Victory Medal. Decker returned to Rochester and worked for Taylor Instrument Companies, which was well known for specializing in medical thermometers. Later he went to work for a Rochester Valve and Fitting Company, which he eventually purchased from his boss and owner. Decker held that company for decades until he sold it to his son.
Decker moved to Palm Coast more than 20 years ago and spent 15 years as a volunteer at AdventHealth Hospital. He recently celebrated his 97th birthday. Decker attends the Hammock Community Church and shares his time with his girlfriend Margo.
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