George Whitney
Deck Dept

©

George Whitney, an alumnus of the JOHN W. BROWN when she served New York City as part of the Metropolitan Vocational High School and later an expert carpenter and able seaman as a Project Liberty Ship volunteer, died on January 12, 2008, at the age of 69.

---

I guess descending from both Scandinavian and British backgrounds might give one an excuse to love the sea, to "have it in his blood." But that didn't drive me towards Metro [Metropolitan Vocational High School] and the JOHN W. BROWN; I was unaware either existed.

I grew up in a middle income community of Brooklyn, lost my Dad when I was eleven, and sort of took care of the family after his passing. I was known to be an intelligent kid but didn't do well in school. Concentration wasn't there and no incentive to study.

The principal of the academic high school I was attending found out I loved ships, knew I was not living up to my potential scholastically, and was aware of the maritime program at MVHS. He suggested I look into it and consider transferring into the maritime program.

It didn't take long to decide and the transition took place. He must have known how to handle kids because I began to excel scholastically almost immediately while still in a college prep program.

Two years' shop time was required for graduation and issuance of seaman's papers, so an extra term was necessary to comply. Graduation, although a little late, finally did take place. Unfortunately a career at sea did not take place. Enlistment into the Navy was to keep me from being drafted into the Army, but that too was short-lived.

Three years later, after having spent two years in inactive status, I received an honorable discharge for reasons of physical disability. Draft status 1-Y, I think that meant they took women and children first.

I never forgot the years aboard the BROWN, they were remembered fondly. Kept a few photos I'd taken aboard and referred to them now and again. Although curious, I did not keep track of the BROWN, and was unaware of her status or condition.

Early 1999 brought the spark alive when I saw the old ship featured in her war condition in a segment of the series on ships of World War II on TV. After some searching I stumbled upon the Project Liberty Ship web site and within days my son and I were plugged into the PLS organization.

The ship where I received my merchant service training is the ship where I first utilized that training albeit many years later.

What a wonderful second chance.

George also served Project Liberty Ship for a number of years as a member of the Board of Directors.