Freatman, Ellis B.

Item

Title
Freatman, Ellis B.
Performer
Ellis B. Freatman
Interviewer
William Vollano
Description
Ellis Freatman grew up in Plymouth and Ypsilanti, Michigan. He graduated from Ypsilanti High School, and was drafted into the Army, entering the service with his longtime friend L.D. Harman. They separated when L.D. went to the Air Force, and Ellis to the Army. Ellis took his basic training in Maxey, Texas, where he was selected for O.C.S. He received high grades and became a 2nd Lt. at the age of 20. Ellis's assignments included posts in different training units. He was sent to Okinawa and was often used as a replacement officer. Ellis led a platoon, but because of his age and lack of experience, he relied a great deal on his sergeant. Although the island was not fully secured, Ellis did not receive any injuries. He was discharged after serving for over three years, and returned to Ypsilanti, Michigan. Upon receiving his discharge, Ellis entered Eastern Michigan University, where he met his wife, and after receiving his degree, he was accepted to the University of Michigan Law School. After 20 years of a highly successful practice, Ellis retired. His one son is also a successful lawyer.
Date Span
1943-1947
Dates of Service
Subject
Commissioned; United States Army; World War, 1939-1945; Second World War - Pacific Theater; First Lieutenant
Publisher
Veterans History Project, American Folklife Center, Library of Congress
Center for Oral History Research at Eastern Michigan University
Collection Location
2/12
https://memory.loc.gov/diglib/vhp/bib/loc.natlib.afc2001001.76529
Spatial Coverage
Second World War - Pacific Theater