Seaman 2nd Class Cecil Thornton, born in Rogersville, Alabama, who died during the Dec. 7 attack on Pearl Harbor, will be buried with full military honors in the Civitan Cemetery in Rogersville, Alabama on March 11 at 10 a.m.
As Seaman 2nd Class, Cecil Thornton’s duties included performing ordinary deck duties in connection with the upkeep and operations of the ship, such as painting, cleaning, and polishing of the ship’s brightwork; the collection and disposal of garbage; maintenance and repair of various types of equipment. He also handled ropes and wires; stored and secured items; assisted with the movement of cargo on and off the ship. He stood watches as lookout, telephone talker, messenger, or similar duties. Also was member of a gun crew.
Awards and Decorations include Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, American Defense Service Medal (with Fleet Clasp), Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medals.
Duty Stations were: USS Oklahoma (BB 37): 03/29/1940 and Naval Training Station Norfolk, VA: 12/15/1939.
Promotions include: Apprentice Seaman upon enlistment and Seaman 2nd Class: 04/14/1940
