Ralph W. Hanlon was born on July 31, 1923 in Springfield, MA. He joined the U.S. Navy during World War II and served on USS Cabot (CVL 28). He stayed in the postwar navy serving with Patrol Squadron Six (VP-6) and on several aircraft carriers including the US Coral Sea (CVA 43) and USS Leyte (CV 32). Hanlon eventually rose to the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer, serving in the role with the Command, Attack Air Wing 15. He retired as a veteran of World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

Master Chief Hanlon passed away on March 28, 2004. He was survived by his wife and two sons.

Link to the collection's Descriptive Finding Guide.

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