https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/212eb8da498735f48299e7f036d0d850.pdf 3821833f70da47a83ec069898799b5bf Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-142 Title A name given to the resource Harry Johnson, Interviewed 19 Nov. 1999 Description An account of the resource Interview with Harry Johnson (1918 - 2013), dated 19 Nov. 1999. A storekeeper from the USS Witter, Johnson recalled the events of April 6, 1945 There is no indication of who conducted the interview. [This item was one of several on a disc within the Ogrodnik Collection, and is only available digitally.] Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Japan--Okinawa Island; World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1999 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Textual record Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2 pp World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Japan--Okinawa Island World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/e957a48bfdf7e38c090757a0b3a2942a.pdf 707cc3f88aad638510d8a825aa5f7813 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-141 Title A name given to the resource Commander Escort Division 40, "Report of Kamikaze Attack on USS Witter" Description An account of the resource A report from Commander Escort Division 40 to the Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. Fleet, dated 25 May 1945, detailing the plane attack on the USS Witter. Written by Frederic W. Hawes, the report includes diagrams, a play-by-play description of the attack and aftermath, and recommendations based on the event. [This item was one of several on a disc within the Ogrodnik Collection, and is only available digitally.] Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Japan--Okinawa Island; World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource original 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Textual record Extent The size or duration of the resource. 10 pp World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Japan--Okinawa Island World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/4e9003e18d5ec97e7923f0c54a0ffa91.pdf cbc6939dfdfd52c93e95bfbbadb497b1 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-140 Title A name given to the resource CortDiv40 War Diary Description An account of the resource A daily operational journal for Commander Escort Division 40, which included the USS Witter. Running from December 1944 through October 1945, this record details locations, training exercises, and general movements/actions of the USS Foreman (DE-633); the USS Whitehurst (DE-634); the USS England (DE-635); the USS Witter (DE-636); the USS Bowers (DE-637); and the USS Willmarth (DE-638). Totalling 59 pages, the record is divided by month. [This item was one of several on a disc within the Ogrodnik Collection, and is only available digitally.] Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Japan--Okinawa Island; World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource original 1944-1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Textual record Extent The size or duration of the resource. 59 pp World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Japan--Okinawa Island World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/ca5bfca8b893ff8461099b00ea190e0a.pdf 406de408c7fb2070546b1e0b63deade9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-139 Title A name given to the resource CortDiv40 Okinawa Report Description An account of the resource A twelve-page action report (with additional cover sheet) for Commander Escort Division 40, Assault on Okinawa, 20 March 1945 - 27 May 1945. Dated 7 June 1945, this previously confidential report details the screening activities of the USS Foreman (DE-633); the USS Whitehurst (DE-634); the USS England (DE-635); the USS Witter (DE-636); the USS Bowers (DE-637); and the USS Willmarth (DE-638). It notes that this report includes "only matters not likely to be covered by the individual ships, or of unusual interest" to "reduce duplication." The report is signed by Frederic W. Hawes. [This item was one of several on a disc within the Ogrodnik Collection, and is only available digitally.] Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Japan--Okinawa Island; World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource original 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Textual record Extent The size or duration of the resource. 13 pp World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Japan--Okinawa Island World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/965bacca232efddedb88bd1ad6bb8819.jpg 37811e44243e3db70a8dbf00404d2975 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/3425e9e2747d83b36210118d4cc7aff5.jpg b329991faa3f9f6849c2b3c19b1607e6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-138 Title A name given to the resource Signed photograph of Laura & George W. Bush Description An account of the resource A color photograph of Laura and George W. Bush, with printing reading "Mrs. Ogrodnik, thank you for your support and friendship as a Charter Member from Massachusetts. With your help we can make America stronger, safer and more prosperous. Best wishes," and is signed by Laura and George W. Bush. The reverse of the image is stamped "Paid for by Bush-Cheney '04, Inc." Subject The topic of the resource Presidential candidates--United States; Political paraphernalia Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2004 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11" Political paraphernalia Presidential candidates--United States https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/01d9111a905ab611ae624d0180bf5a70.jpg 089ebb276e4670307e72157d4449f82b https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7d296ad7583b350e28fbb115792461b6.jpg fdc31417d65fb7dcf9834bbbd23329f9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-137 Title A name given to the resource Anonymous, circa 1999 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of three women and a man standing together and smiling at the camera. There are some red, white, and blue balloons in the background, and part of another person is visible in the right of the image. None of the people are identified, and there is no indication of where this may have been taken. The reverse of the photo is stamped "Sep. 1999." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 1999 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0edc86ca3a5cd47adb2d7197790aea77.jpg 7f1990cb1f693b4e20d30b62adf0352f https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/dc53586b1bd372f8f683bb234d1a3de7.jpg 27616b78685c476ddcf52ab2879217cb Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-136 Title A name given to the resource Men group photo, circa 2001 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of fourteen men arranged in two rows for a group photograph. Joseph Ogrodnik is seated in the center of the front row; none of the others are identified. The reverse of the photo is stamped "Oct 2001," and this is likely from one of the USS Witter reunions. The setting is the same as images Ogrodnik-132, -133, and -134. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 2001 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/b1b8229ea7b5104a12c69755f6295698.jpg 3321ff86ae14d107bb7f6df8f867bc6d https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7ef1f4b37c8c56d92d3a7d1776a6344e.jpg 1fe52455ec28c8f92baa3042171e176e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-135 Title A name given to the resource Candid photo, circa 2001 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of several people around a large table that is scattered with beverages, bowls, amd what appear to be binders and photographs. The people are in various conversations, and one man on the left is looking at a binder of black and white photos. Three of the men in the image are wearing what seem to be veterans baseball hats, but the particular insignias are too blurry to make out. The reverse of the photo is stamped "Oct 2001," and this is likely from a reunion or related meeting. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 2001 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/930bf7cd0be4f896b96ea1de1799ff95.jpg 8a587468d10b0743bc2b9b695fb71718 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7d7356797fe463be748c8b67e1efb9cf.jpg 4a78585d9b409f034e046b327aa0b5fc Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-134 Title A name given to the resource Women group photo 3, circa 2001 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of seventeen women posing for a group photo. Joan Ogrodnik is standing in the back row, second from the left. The other women are unidentified and arranged in three rows. The image was taken at an angle, and the women are arranged in three rows in front of a wall with some generic images hung on it, suggesting a hotel or similar. The reverse of the photo is stamped "Oct 2001," and is likely from one of the USS Witter reunions. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 2001 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/8c0d2fd7db6854be62ba3f697c5eced2.jpg 3f261b652838c2b868b9c0b6f89f527b https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/570eb7d0cbeb11766831a7c98ba6a18c.jpg 071d92a9ca61c2ee0fb67208a55a73e5 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-133 Title A name given to the resource Women group photo 2, circa 2001 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of fifteen women posing for a group photo, standing in two rows. This image was taken in the same setting as item Ogrodnik-132, though with a slightly different cast. Joan Ogrodnik is in the back row, fourth in from the left. The reverse of the photo is stamped "Oct 2001," and is likely from one of the Witter reunions. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 2001 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/d2f5903b015c22947b31b069724665dd.jpg 273f9dbd7aef8417a13654bdcf3488bd https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/c4021b36362dc1272d536b1b93f6d88d.jpg 228df56eed07c247affb7e19a3d2c0f6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-132 Title A name given to the resource Women group photo, circa 2001 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of seventeen women posing for a group photo. Joan Ogrodnik is standing in the back row, second from the left. The other women are unidentified and arranged in three rows. The image was taken at an angle, and the women are arranged in three rows in front of a wall with some generic images hung on it, suggesting a hotel or similar. The reverse of the photo is stamped "Oct 2001," and is likely from one of the USS Witter reunions. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 2001 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/25c6f018a442338e8146555a81d580ac.jpg 70192e51ea41b90c902991338884bbc4 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/08980394db5dad3ae0b670fd7f3dffbe.jpg a7f2859abd8336f7e5b516eab3f4ea47 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-131 Title A name given to the resource Group photo 2, circa 2001 Description An account of the resource A color photo of the same group from item Ogrodnik-130, taken in the process of the group posing. Joan Ogrodnik is centered; Joseph Ogrodnik is the rightmost person. The others are unidentified. The image is stamped on the reverse "Oct 2001," and is likely related to one of the reunions. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 2001 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/f9344a13789a1116e011d4263c3d0068.jpg 56f0d8df40c6ae7f44fc8e0bf567cd0f https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/c9575d113a41413477c8abee21bc85b3.jpg c89f18cafc486d75887a5b7530738f7f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-130 Title A name given to the resource Group photo, circa 2001 Description An account of the resource A color photograph, possibly at one of the reunions, stamped on the reverse "Oct 2001." Joseph and Joan Ogrodnik are the two rightmost people in the photo; there are six unidentified people standing with them. They appear to be standing on some sort of train or subway platform, though there is no location given. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 2001 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/4d5ad205b1758663f69a1f263e0c01ba.jpg 4e556c73a82405bb8e802be50bf94149 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-129 Title A name given to the resource Looking at photographs Description An account of the resource A color photograph of a man in a red jacket and dark hat looking at a board of several black and white photos, possibly crew photos from the USS Witter. Joseph Ogrodnik is standing in profile in the left of the image, also wearing a dark hat. Another man is partially visible to the right, who is also wearing a dark hat. While unlabeled, this is likely a photo from one of the USS Witter reunions. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource no date Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.5 x 5" Reunions USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/725fca827f52372d99579c215a3b31e8.jpg 3f926c355071560b0cf6241006beb540 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-128 Title A name given to the resource DESA Clipping, circa 2004 Description An account of the resource A clipping in two pieces from DESA News, undated. The clipping details the 15th reunion of the USS Witter held in Septermber 2003, which had 45 people in attendence. The article includes a black and white image of a large group of people posed for a photo, possibly on board a ship. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 2004 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 6.75 x 7.5" Reunions USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/c9c1ae6c1c1475fbb0d4f7c892c30d78.jpg 797f59f3fafd655d267016c48a9c18af Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-127 Title A name given to the resource DESA Clipping, May/June 2007 Description An account of the resource A clipping from the May/June 2007 issue of DESA News, regarding the 18th reunion of the USS Witter, held in June 2006. The article includes a black and white photograph 14 men and women sitting for a group photo. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2007 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 11 x 6.5" Reunions USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0d162bb74e5f1fa8f411335000af19a3.jpg a6cca4e563d73d96fd6f1c34717d32de https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7f209801a3bcd5d3072a88fb367e2173.jpg 8c189da1830e70cd7660c5710723111d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-126 Title A name given to the resource "Brother preserves memory of fallen hero" Description An account of the resource A laminated newspaper clipping mounted on pink paper, with a note "Compliments of Senator Mike Knapik." The article is about Joseph Ogrodnik's work to memorialize his brother Francis, and includes a color photograph of Joseph looking at some of the materials that are now in this collection, as well as black and white photographs from the collection itself. The article describes Francis's enlistment, service, and death; as well as Joseph's efforts at connecting with his brother's shipmates and memorializing the attack and loss of life. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; United States. Navy Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource no date Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11" United States. Navy USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/8ceac8409724b323a803f22c06fe9e74.jpg dfa853c3d09f36877496fd03ec9c8066 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-125 Title A name given to the resource Collage photo of USS Witter Description An account of the resource A collaged photo featuring different images of the USS Witter. The top has a text overlay in a blue stencil-style font, reading "USS Witter DE-636; George Hermann, III; LTCMDR, U.S.N.R.; Commanding". The background image is a large-frame shot of the USS Witter at sea. Clockwise from top left, the other images are: a man in a Captain's hat, standing aboard a vessel of which only a small portion is visible; a group of sailors at the front of a large ship, with a lowered flag and other ships in the background; a group photo of several men in uniform on board a large ship; and the side of the USS Witter with damage visible from the plane strike. The entire collage was printed as a single item, so there are no attached pieces. With the exception of the text overlay, the entire image is black and white. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945; United States. Navy Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource no date Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11" United States. Navy USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/e6211ac4c597d5d73b9bd6c0d891142b.jpg a0b2b2c63a583c65fb25b7808c18ad7c Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-124 Title A name given to the resource DESA Clipping, circa 2003 Description An account of the resource A clipping from likely an early 2003 issue of DESA News, detailing the 14th reunion of the USS Witter, held in September 2002 in Asheville, NC. The clipping includes a small black and white photo several men posed for a group photo. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2003 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.5 x 9.5" Reunions USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/2a55ddcb7eb6bd8d26e5a78f4779482f.jpg 0ffa39a6daedc50329e89d829592ef99 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-123 Title A name given to the resource DESA Clipping, January/February 2002 Description An account of the resource A clipping from the January/February issue of DESA News, detailing the 13th reunion of the USS Witter, held in Rosemont, IL, in September 2001. It includes a small black and white photograph of several men in suits and ties grouped in front of two framed images on a wall. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2002 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.5 x 10" Reunions USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/d637e9383861cc8d13d4bfbcfa7fed35.jpg cd64fc96daf9602e0d27461c85510742 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-122 Title A name given to the resource DESA Clipping, November/December 2000 Description An account of the resource A clipping from the November/December issue of DESA News, detailing the 12th reunion of the USS Witter, held in September 2000 in St Louis, MO. It includes a small black and white photograph of a group of men in suits and ties. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2000 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 10.5 x 3.75" Reunions USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/612d18ff1a50029082fc2b8403ac7771.jpg 9232b8bd459cdf5109845d158db3d89e https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0b0b7fd71e3490fb55823298d8d20f40.jpg 8ffbe296d6fa2599e0b70e7a1a299ed2 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-121 Title A name given to the resource Oct. 28, 2000 article "Shipmates forever connected by World War II attack" Description An account of the resource An article clipped from an unspecified newspaper from Wilmington, NC, regarding USS San Francisco's service in WWII and the annual reunion of sailors from the ship. The article is in two parts, and includes a color photo of veterans looking at an anti-aircraft gun aboard the Battleship North Carolina; as well as black and white photos of the USS San Francisco returning to Pearl Harbor in 1942, and a black and white photo of a veteran from the USS San Francisco. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; United States. Navy Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2000 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 12.5 x 9"; 13.5 x 7" United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/5163fe1cf5893fce351cb72430807ebc.jpg 802aef65a74f02497df79d60ec346df4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-120 Title A name given to the resource Joseph Ogrodnik and friend with vanity plates Description An account of the resource A color photograph of Joseph Ogrodnik and an unknown friend standing at the rear of two vehicles, both with vanity plates reading "DE 636." The vehicle on the left is Joseph's white minivan, which also has a bumper sticker for Al's Diner in the rear window. The vehicle on the right is a dark green Honda Accord with North Carolina plates. Both men are wearing light blue shirts, and are standing together. There are several homes in the background. The photo is undated, but the registration sticker in the upper right corner of the van's license plate is dated 01 [2001], suggesting this was sometime in the two years prior. Subject The topic of the resource Chicopee (Mass.)--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 2000 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Chicopee (Mass.)--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/c1b3dbaa60b1a412b82ad42b73a0c44c.jpg 10540b1d0d8882e249166b4510bc6b01 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-119 Title A name given to the resource Joseph Ogrodnik with vanity plate, photo 2 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of Joseph Ogrodnik standing at the rear of a white minivan with the license plate Massachusetts "DE 636." Joseph is wearing a navy-blue jacket and baseball cap that appear to have his service information on them. The photo is undated, but the registration sticker in the upper right corner of the license plate is dated 2000, suggesting this was taken sometime in the two years prior. There is a garage in the background, and a house and yard in the far background. Subject The topic of the resource Chicopee (Mass.)--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Chicopee (Mass.)--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/92cf1a7dd1758d70a65806849963010b.jpg 0f12d2e620db31dd165f15749cf44877 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-118 Title A name given to the resource Joseph Ogrodnik with vanity plate, photo 1 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of Joseph Ogrodnik standing in front of a white minivan with his hand on the hood of the car. The van's license plate is Massachusetts "DE 636." Joseph is wearing what looks like a baseball cap and jacket with his service information on them. The van sits in a paved driveway, with other homes and some bare trees in the background. Subject The topic of the resource Chicopee (Mass.)--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Chicopee (Mass.)--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/110e0657e392591e98a0bc2f9ff097fa.jpg d2ed0bb4e8697463688766789a61ca48 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/68ddc96fb693d2753c4f781972c6f2fa.jpg 9bf3a4a057a4686151111965d4a87a3a Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-117 Title A name given to the resource Memorial service program for Aaron M. "Mickey" Olem Description An account of the resource A small memorial service program for Aaron M. "Mickey" Olem (1922-2000). The front has an image of a burning bush and the words "In Memoriam"; the inside has the 23rd Psalm and brief details of the service; the reverse has a mourner's kaddish. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Funeral prayer cards Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2000 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Textual record Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5.5 x 8.5" Funeral prayer cards World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/c0e9074f4b83be0ade1c6124132d9617.jpg 35912809e33ed69318efbc82474b18a7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-116 Title A name given to the resource Photo of Joseph & Jean Ogrodnik with other couple Description An account of the resource A color photograph of Joseph and Jean Ogrodnik (striped shirt and pink shirt, respectively), with an unnamed couple. Joseph and Jean are standing on either side of a woman with glasses and a blue vest, whose hand is on the shoulder of a man seated in a wheelchair in front of the other three. There are trees and part of a brick building in the background. The image is digitally stamped 8/24/99 in the lower left corner. Given the proximity to the memorial information for Aaron M. "Mickey" Olem (item OGRODNIK-116), the other couple in the photo might be Aaron and his wife Sylvia Olem. Subject The topic of the resource Chicopee (Mass.)--Veterans Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1999 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11" Chicopee (Mass.)--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/b56bbc10848986fd8c8ad76677d80588.jpg bee38abeda0f365307185d9b225b35c9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-115 Title A name given to the resource Reunion clipping, Jan/Feb 1999 Description An account of the resource A clipping from DESA News, hand-labelled "Jan/Feb DESA," describing the ninth reunion of the USS Witter that was held in September of 1998 in San Antonio, TX. The clipping includes a black and white photo pf several men wearing USS Witter basebal caps. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions; USS Witter (DE 636) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1999 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 9.5" Reunions USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/1620b8c2c79e780dea9813f2bbc5ec10.jpg 0186034404929df0ed2269e6269eb670 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-114 Title A name given to the resource Reunion clipping, Nov/Dec 1999 Description An account of the resource A clipping from DESA News, hand-dated Nov/Dec 1999, regarding the 11th reunion of the USS Witter in Sea-Tac, WA. There is also a clipping attached from the next issue of DESA News, in which Joseph Ogrodnik had written in with a correction to the original article. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions; USS Witter (DE 636) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1999 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 9.75" Reunions USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/32af502729b093665d6e103590b1c678.jpg 3241cdc9ecde24301e38fbc86bcdf498 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-113 Title A name given to the resource Chicopee Trade School diploma, 1938 Description An account of the resource A diploma from the Chicopee Trade School, dated June 22nd, 1938, stating that Francis Joseph Ogrodnik successfully completed the three-year course in machine work and tool making. The diploma is black print and handwriting on cream-colored paper. Subject The topic of the resource Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1938 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Textual record Extent The size or duration of the resource. 7.75 x 10.25" Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/dd26b3bd2ca0080b0e25dc190b72c34d.jpg aab44152dc6e90e70eb71cf11c9e4ba2 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-112 Title A name given to the resource Diploma of Merit, 1935 Description An account of the resource A Diploma of Merit, dated June 23rd, 1935, for Francis Joseph Ogrodnik. Awarded from St. Patrick's Parochial School in Chicopee Falls, this marked his completion of the "first grammar grade. The diploma is black print and handwriting on cream-colored paper. Subject The topic of the resource Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1935 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Textual record Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11" Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0f41ebe3c7d5aed2567df6b35f39adf9.jpg 02330b8c479fb7c227d436d50169f8dd Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-111 Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Drive, photo 6 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of a shaded road, presumably Ogrodnik Drive in Szot Park. The road curves strongly to the left, where it meets a parking lot with a few cars in it. There are several trees surrounding the road; some benches beneath the trees; and an unidentified building in the far background. Subject The topic of the resource Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/8c2c848e18dce33eddc77a5504f7efca.jpg cfd508aa4e69ead0af92f1c1d52572c3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-110 Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Drive, photo 5 Description An account of the resource A color close-up of the street sign identifying WT2c Ogrodnik Drive in Szot Park, and the sign below it detailing his service in World War II and death aboard the USS Witter. The street sign is green with white font; the other sign is white with black font. The photo is angled slightly up, and there are several treetops in the background. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/68f0261782ba07d120e8ad3769ab1245.jpg dd50099a7e71e4148f19760f56860baf Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-109 Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Drive, photo 4 Description An account of the resource A color close-up of the certificate from item Ogrodnik-108. Joseph Ogrodnik is holding a wooden frame with an Official Citation from the Massachusetts State Senate, dated July 2, 1998, posthumously recognizing Francis Ogrodnik for his service. The photograph is digitally stamped 8/20/98 in the upper left corner. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/2dbbcfb4ab6a1ef237b060314a77e6d7.jpg 50a43c16edf96e52a7d414a2b61e2bff Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-108 Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Drive, photo 3 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of Joseph Ogrodnik holding a framed certificate, on which the words "Official Citation" are just visible near the top. He is wearing jeans, a striped shirt, and a dark blue baseball cap, standing near the metal post of a street sign. There are several trees and semi-open space in the background. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/b505546eec49c8861224d1b76a5f1ea7.jpg 5757405f26767084eddcd40549e45806 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-107 Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Drive, photo 2 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of Joseph Ogrodnik standing beneath the sign marking WT2c Ogrodnik Drive in Szot Park. There is a white sign below the green street sign, but the writing is not legible at this distance. Joseph is standing a foot or so back from the curb, with his hands behind his back. He is wearing civilian clothes and a dark blue baseball cap. There are several trees and semi-open space in the background. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7aa400678f8cf55dff6b0fcfe46780dd.jpg c3bbc1f7926d4745664766be2931a013 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-106 Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Drive, photo 1 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of Joseph Ogrodnik standing beneath the sign marking WT2c Ogrodnik Drive in Szot Park. There is a second white sign beneath the green road sign, but the writing is illegible from this distance. There are red white and blue ribbons tied around a nearby tree, and there are several other trees and a paved road in the background. Joseph is wearing civilian clothes and a dark blue baseball cap, facing the camera. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/4ce52bf959fa36004f0b092d47192080.jpg c6a92de296812c8bd5e643dded7186a9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-105 Title A name given to the resource Dedication Ceremony, photo 5 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of part of the ceremony dedicating WT2c Ogrodnik Drive in Szot Park. The photo shows Joseph Ogrodnik placing the wreath on a stand near the stage, with the sign detailing Francis Ogrodnik's service in front of the wreath. Joseph is facing away from the camera; Joan Ogrodnik (Joseph's wife) is in profile, facing the wreath. There is a man in Navy whites also facing the wreath and saluting; and a color guard in the background wearing what looks like Civil War uniforms, facing the camera. In the background is a portion of the bleachers and scoreboard in Szot Park's baseball diamond. The photo is digitally stamped 7/6/98 in the lower left corner. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.); Memorial service Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Memorial service Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/24ed1bcef419e595dbd8ab8549c15ccd.jpg e8bc6ce966f27568c9fc9ee3a16cadb5 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-104 Title A name given to the resource Dedication Ceremony, photo 4 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of part of the ceremony dedicating WT2c Ogrodnik Drive in Szot Park. Two men stand in front of a stage, next to two wreaths on stands. The man on the left is wearing Navy whites, with his hands at his sides. The man on the right (Joseph Ogrodnik) is wearing civilian clothes, and holding a blue folder. A sign below one of the wreaths describes part of Francis Ogrodnik's military service and subsequent death aboard the USS Witter. Behind the stage setup is a baseball diamond, with bleachers far in the background. The photo is digitally stamped 7/6/98 in the lower left corner. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.); Memorial service Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Memorial service Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/6715de9fedbe5e4124e8532156bbc96e.jpg 589b5db843017209da602bf7c99257ad Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-103 Title A name given to the resource Dedication Ceremony, photo 3 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of part of the ceremony dedicating WT2c Ogrodnik Drive in Szot Park. Three people are standing with their back to the camera, facing five men who are holding flags and at least one rifle. To the left of the image is a stage with two wreaths on stands in front of it; the people in the foreground are holding a third wreath. In the background of the image is the scoreboard for Szot Park and some bleachers, as well as a few other spectators. The men with the flags and rifle(s) appear to be wearing Civil War uniforms; one of the people with their back to the camera is in Navy whites, and the other two are in civilian clothes. The photo is digitally stamped 7/6/98 in the lower left corner. There is some sun blur/an exposure issue along the right side of the image, creating a white spot and streak. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.); Memorial service Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Memorial service Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/13b4d424bf7bbd1fccf7d6f235deaaad.jpg aeadf4f8385928cbad673aaf892bc5c7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-102 Title A name given to the resource Dedication Ceremony, photo 2 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of part of the ceremony to dedicate WT2c Ogrodnik Drive in Szot Park. What looks like two different color guards are standing along a dirt/gravel road holding different flags. Between them stands a person with a large television-type camera. Behind the color guards are an assortment of spectators. The color guard to the right of the image seem to be reenactors, as do some of the spectators standing behind them; the color guard to the left of the image have what might be an American Legion flag. This part of the proceedings seems to be in a cemetery, and there are headstones visible in the background. The image is digitally stamped 7/6/98 in the lower left corner. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.); Memorial service Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Memorial service Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/18f4704110fe1d161351f9f8c164f200.jpg 8d74a6f5ff536eb4cb07c40909c032f5 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-101 Title A name given to the resource Dedication Ceremony, photo 1 Description An account of the resource A color photograph of part of the ceremony to dedicate WT2c Ogrodnik Drive in Szot Park. A man wearing sunglasses stands at a podium with a microphone, with several other men seated behind him. An American flag is in the left of the image. The image is date-stamped in the lower left corner, 7/6/98. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.); Memorial service Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4 x 6" Memorial service Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/3568fc87e236d39c3a130382587108ea.jpg e48994f93acdcd153c57fe8cca4d076c https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/099ff1f7e5d7db4ef42402249e55b2ad.jpg 12daec432a0c5970b8df2a262883c1cc https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/d6bb7d305a22dddd495cc07a817d5baf.jpg a8c874bf1260e95878a40216067df734 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7d65950a810635d3f51ed188c041fc11.jpg 91baee314e01ee0f544a4d3a8061a295 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-100 Title A name given to the resource Joseph Ogrodnik's Speech Description An account of the resource A typed speech prepared and given by Joseph Ogrodnik for the dedication of the Szot Park street named after Francis Ogrodnik. Joseph recalls memories of his elder brother, known to the family as "Sonny," as well as his enlistment and death aboard the USS Witter. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.); Memorial service Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Speeches Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11"; 4pp Memorial service Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/5ed09abe393442c23674b04b63cb0749.jpg b2158703663a1ff570f1455e8b198a6d https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7f484bc81bc248f9453e5a78b3783fae.jpg a684efa1afa8f4114b6020ca2e214da9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-099 Title A name given to the resource Chicopee Street Naming Dedication Program Description An account of the resource Program for the Chicopee Street Naming Dedication ceremony in Szot Park, July 5, 1998. Program is printed in black on light blue paper folded into a single folio. The front includes the location and date information as well as images of Sgt. Charles H. Tracy; Pvt. Frank J. Szot; and WT2c. Francis J. Ogrodnik. The inside has information about the three soldiers being honored and a detailed program of the day's events. The back of the program lists the committee responsible for the event. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.); Memorial service Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Memorial service programs Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11" Memorial service Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7075458598a027876cd636ab3697d927.jpg 9fd35063d19572f7d4424b1d83073dd7 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/2458c5602b7a462ceb46c4f835185d05.jpg 4aaecfaab84a2e26a0bae98c6daa08e3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-098 Title A name given to the resource Copy of newspaper clippings regarding the naming of roads in Szot Park Description An account of the resource Copies of two articles, one on each side of the sheet, regarding the naming of streets in Szot Park after Chicopee veterans. One article is essentially a rehash of the article in item Ogrodnik-097; the other is about the ceremony when it took place. It is hand-labeled as being from the Springfield Union, 8-6-1998, and includes a photo of the color guard marching to the graveside memorial service for Charles H. Tracy, who served in the Civil War. The article quotes Joseph Ogrodnik Jr as being very pleased that his brother was being honored with a street being named after him, and states that he and his sister Lillian Walas were both in attendance. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.); Memorial service Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11" Memorial service Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/d82b3b56a67827923b47c9b072f4b570.jpg 34cb3963de15930de9bad56ec8e3edb2 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-097 Title A name given to the resource Copy of newspaper clipping, "Committee Formed to Honor War Heroes" Description An account of the resource A copy of a newspaper clipping, undated, regarding the renaming of three roads within Szot Park after local veterans. While the article has no date, it says the ceremony is intended to correspond with the city's 150th birthday, suggesting this was in 1998. The article states that one of the roads is going to be named after Francis Ogrodnik, the other two after Frank J. Szot, and Charles H. Tracy. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11" Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/1c3848751c8692b41da682a545af502a.jpg ec6a7237397a0cad1cf24af49b5bd4a3 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/dd14258d32174c90675f52b53984c9d4.jpg a93cc32d8c56800da9f33812b8f34be4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-096 Title A name given to the resource Letter to Chicopee Veteran's Service Department, April 9, 1998 Description An account of the resource A sheet of paper containing a letter to the Chicopee Veterans' Services Department on one side, and a response letter from Mayor Richard Kos on the reverse. The letter from Joseph Ogrodnik Jr to the Veterans' Services is requesting that a street or similar be named after Francis, with information regarding Francis's service. The letter from Mayor Kos, dated April 15, 1998, assures Joseph that he is in full support of a street in Szot Park being named after Francis. There is a written note along the bottom reading "Given [illegible] newspaper article, let me know if I should do anything at this time," and signed by the Mayor. The written portion appears slightly pixelated, suggesting this may be a copy of the original letter. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1998 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11" Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/a93e2c477477520a405935aa34e05d08.jpg 8c9efdb5d2603f1fa85a4a0516b73c0a Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-095 Title A name given to the resource "Memories" Description An account of the resource A single printed page by Joseph Ogrodnik Jr., remembering his brother Francis. It's unclear if this was an article or perhaps a speech, but a line referencing a photograph ("that's me in the background") suggests there was a photograph included at some point. Joseph describes growing up with his older brother, who was ten years older, and discusses Francis's interests in machinery and engines. He also briefly recalls Francis's schooling, work, enlistment/service, and his death in 1945. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Undated Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Textual record Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11" Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/2b8945f51b5ddc079af8c0847fc4e18c.jpg cd83cd017fa4c0bdd3a73c30aa654668 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-093 Title A name given to the resource Clipping, DESA News July-August 1995 Description An account of the resource A clipping from the July-August DESA News titled "TAPS Non-Members," with a list of names divided by ship. Given the names listed under the USS Witter, the names are likely those killed in action. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945; Destroyer Escorts Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1995 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2.5 x 12" Destroyer escorts World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/6d0af2df3122b2a9a905a48cdc1eb4c6.jpg 37e4ff2cffdf121875f60d4a78fc378d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-092 Title A name given to the resource Clipping, DESA News March-April 1995 Description An account of the resource A clipping from the March-April DESA News about the sixth reunion of the USS Witter, held in the fall of 1994. The article includes a photograph of 17 men in front of a sign reading "Welcome USS Witter Reunion." Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions; USS Witter (DE 636) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1995 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4.75 x 7.75" Reunions USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/e985c9dcb3b839e5117df9eea8daa082.jpg 47a197f5db39536d8c58e2e221aa87f7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-091 Title A name given to the resource Clipping, DESA News May-June 1995 Description An account of the resource A clipping from the May-June DESA News with a list of upcoming reunions. The USS Witter's listing is one up from the bottom in the leftmost column. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1995 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 7.25 x 5.5" Reunions World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/da492a1da8b44536a4d92a7449b04a36.jpg 178377c1d312feeaef947d9d40983002 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-090 Title A name given to the resource Returned check Description An account of the resource A check made out from the Ogrodniks to Malcolm Witter for $18, dated April 30th, 1993; together with a handwritten note from Malcolm Witter returning the check and saying "I would have to say you have already paid the price." The "memo" section of the check reads "2 cups," but it's unclear what the check was intended for. The items are adhered inside a sleeve protector with double-sided tape. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Correspondence Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1993 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Veterans--Correspondence https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/65b71bed0a81189958d40c4649a89ff1.jpg 1bbce32536aa2328c3f96955f49fbbef Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-089 Title A name given to the resource Clipping, "Eighteen DEs Named for San Francisco Heroes" Description An account of the resource A brief news article from the September-October DESA newsletter listing the 18 ships named after men killed from the USS San Francisco, including the USS Witter. The clipping is adhered inside a sleeve protector with double-sided tape. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Destroyer escorts Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1994 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Destroyer escorts World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/d56e03dc6f1dfb6f03b77d225b2ff508.jpg a6dbcd5e1c41ab16c4318b0f81da8318 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-088 Title A name given to the resource Clippings, DESA News 1994 Description An account of the resource A series of clippings from the 1994 DESA News, that have been adhered into a sleeve protector with double-sided tape. The large clipping is an brief article about the fifth reunion of the USS Witter; the two smaller clippings are advanced notices of the reunion. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; USS Witter (DE 636); Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1994 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Reunions USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7474b0723f361786e69fd79e87a46ecb.jpg edaf1e35f8040d739138e346d6dc7145 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/a29c8ee77aee374a74bcf9175daa3250.jpg 0448e41d44bcf594612ba7e57c45ba32 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/54f0e47333970bb6da9c69c6d3d2fbb0.jpg 70a13f023ed9f66c08c174fc1bf47dcd https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/ec8844765c99a6c98c0f5aada234a60a.jpg 22bba57190d8c006e7a6d8f0a99b2f52 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/507f3ca3de85b96f112a3974d1953145.jpg 35f21e6a4647ae1d22ce0b1c7a658f64 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/ca650f1186e3ebf76107cad63ad027de.jpg 90d92bf429b7575f3949aff5065ce9fc Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-087 Title A name given to the resource Paul Silance memorial materials Description An account of the resource Two cards for the funeral & burial of Paul T. Silance (9/21/1924 - 2/4/1996), and a thank-you card from his family to the Ogrodniks. The funerial cards are from two different funeral homes: Eberly Funeral Home in Dallastown, PA (card for a Mass of Christian burial); and Walter J. Johnson Funeral Home in Clark, NJ. Both these and the thank-you card feature various Catholic imagery. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Funeral prayer cards Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Funeral prayer cards Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3pp Funeral prayer cards World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/034d1dad9b771fb9194ac9c863e5726d.jpg 8c6f962009d951d2d0141da59b504f28 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/76921dcfa65441f2a903a88d924402b7.jpg c3f77098b93f65ad278610a2df007f63 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/119b0c14f3ed3fcec9816d95cb6c7f22.jpg 46b337dfaad35473ecf988f999c89018 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/b476aa89afdffc763a63f29c09788385.jpg 78bf57047d8f3df2f8f632ff1c91f356 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/356937ce1e431aca04f6be37ee55830d.jpg 0b0a5eb3a2fb53e61f38f3738ef5edbc https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/355d46ded213666a7d304a29c01c3e64.jpg 30aea6afc7e96b7bbdd02966ddf1b731 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-086 Title A name given to the resource 50th Anniversary "in memoriams" Description An account of the resource A typed note to Joe and Joan Ogrodnik from Paul Silance, regarding the enclosed "in memoriam" card from the Los Angeles Times that details what was posted in the paper on April 6, 1995, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the plane attack. In addition to the enclosed In Memoriam, there is a copy of another clipping from an unspecified paper that was published by Joseph Ogrodnik Jr, and includes a photo of Francis Ogrodnik. The note sent by Silance states that he is attempting to contact other next-of-kin, and asks the Ogrodniks to pass on any contact information they may have. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; United States. Navy--Veterans; USS Witter (DE 636) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1995 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp + enclosed United States. Navy--Veterans USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/70db9e4271760c25e3d70869b175a2ea.jpg 425a4b34d758fee458eeef980c30a4e2 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-085 Title A name given to the resource Letter to Charles "Bud" Goodwin from Paul T. Silance, February 10, 1993 Description An account of the resource A typed letter from Paul T. Silance in his role as USS Witter Secretary, to Charles "Bud" Goodwin, Chairman of the DESA Roll of Honor Committee. Dated February 10, 1993, the letter references a notice printed in the January/February issue of DESA Newsletter, and goes on to list the names and ranks of the six men killed aboard the Witter when it was attacked in 1945.Silance notes that the bodies were taken off the ship at Okinawa for burial. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; United States. Navy--Veterans; USS Witter (DE 636) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1993 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp United States. Navy--Veterans USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/6214139f330406925c53cf5c152fd53a.jpg 3a69407b018e74fd5c69964d700b076b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-084 Title A name given to the resource "Transmittal of and/or Entitlement to Awards" Description An account of the resource A form authorizing several awards for issuance to Joseph Ogrodnik in the name of Francis Ogrodnik for his WWII service. The awards authorized for issuance are: Purple Heart medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign medal (with handwritten notation "W2 B*"); World War II Victory medal. The form is dated April 27, 1989. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; United States. Navy--Medals, badges, decorations, etc.; Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1989 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Textual record Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp United States. Navy--Medals, badges, decorations, etc. World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/2dc5638bc05895bd70c9c9b36d8c4e62.jpg 81296b65d75a3193003f48f72c2d4971 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0fbbffa81e3215f984603418b46ba2eb.jpg 207b2691accfbbfb449f728225679611 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-083 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), stbd. looking to port + slightly fwd Description An account of the resource A black and white photograph of the damage done to the Witter during the plane attack. There are two uniformed men standing amid the damage. Counter-clockwise from the lower right corner, the labels read: "U.S.S. Witter (DE 636), stbd., looking to port + slightly fwd., docked in AG70 off Okina [sic], taken June 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 6; 2nd plat. blown up; 1st plat. blown up;main dk.; crew's qtra. A-206AL; stbd. shell; stbd. long'l bhd., fr. 53-59, blown inbd.; keel." The reverse of the photo has a small "2" in the upper right corner. The photo paper used has "this paper manufactured by Kodak," indicating that this is a 1980s-1990s print of a photo taken in 1945. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Original 1945; reprint circa 1990s Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 6.5" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/41e3d7b1bcc86b6768c916065d47cbda.jpg 9e3c1b0c767440c24d03fe638ef62c65 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/25d9785f44a6692a1d0d03c44ead2960.jpg 7eacdb97c4707961934fab179632d151 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-082 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), view of stbd. shell frs. 47-50) Description An account of the resource A black and white photograph of some of the internal repairs being done to the USS Witter following the plane attack. The label in the lower left corner reads: "U.S.S. Witter (DE 636), view of stbd. shell frs. 47-50, showing extent of damage, taken 18 Aug. 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 21." There is a label in the upper left reading "New stanchion + shell installed by repair ship." The reverse of the photo has a small "7" in the upper left corner. The photo paper used has "this paper manufactured by Kodak," indicating that this is a 1980s-1990s print of a photo taken in 1945. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Original 1945; reprint circa 1990s Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 6.5" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/4e2e32e86fc5c4f1bd902796cac10107.jpg 0e0e5d8cf19b735f21bea3415fdd1b25 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/d500b312a09711edcc1efa0baccd48fe.jpg a9a6cf3ffbd4e281eb9cdd142deea980 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-081 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (De 636), looking down to fwd. Description An account of the resource A black and white photograph of the hole left in the hull by the plane strike. The label in the lower right corner reads: "U.S.S. Witter (DE 636), Looking down to fwd., viewing stbd. hull, FRS 48-65, showing damage caused by plane crash + bomb explosion, docked in AG70 off Okinawa, taken June 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 5." The reverse of the photo has a small "3" in the upper left corner. The photo paper used has "this paper manufactured by Kodak," indicating that this is a 1980s-1990s print of a photo from 1945. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Original 1945; reprint circa 1990s Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 6.5" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/a16aa1529a7b9c200f36689da1410b81.jpg 39db88343dccb2b5d8570d9249bd8710 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/3b8f90c1fe690df057ee9156c0f6e32a.jpg 38c0105b5a40c31d23c8b13462a52514 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-080 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), view looking up from fuel oil tank Description An account of the resource A black and white photograph of some of the damage done during the plane attack. Clockwise from the upper right corner, the labels read: " U.S.S. Witter (DE 636), view looking up from fuel oil tank 4-2F, looking to port, showing explosion damage, taken 18 Aug 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 13; For'd BHD.; Trans. BHD.; Aft. BHF-D.; 1st Plat." The reverse of the photograph has a small "8" in the upper left corner. The photo paper used has "this paper manufactured by Kodak," indicating that this is a 1980s-1990s print of a photo from 1945. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Original 1945; reprint circa 1990s Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 6.5" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/93da922aa9013fd538f023b1500c1399.jpg 4d1d12b0da4304bec72d27b561f0fde3 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/a53a5e855bf64d6c7c3b654ae9ebc009.jpg b506dbcd2d4de7038898842ccd302dae Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-079 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636) Fwd. end of fireroom Description An account of the resource A black and white photograph of the progress of repairs on the USS Witter. Outer labels read (counterclockwise from lower right): "U.S.S. Witter (DE 636), Fwd. end of fireroom, stbd. side, looking aft. from FR.57, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 23; F.O. Booster + transfer pump; steam drum; forced draft blower; temp. structure installed by AG 70 off Okinawa." Middle labels read, top to bottom: "Superheater tubes; generating tubes; burner registers; refractory; FR.59." The reverse of the photograph has a small "9" in the upper left corner. The photo paper used has "this paper manufactured by Kodak," indicating that this is a 1980s-1990s print of a photo from 1945. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Original 1945; reprint circa 1990s Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 6.5" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/d106f9199c50a781fab1500daaa03ba4.jpg c14c237d46bb38e66ed8d918d4f90ed2 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/17a7c18efea4e3d8cf29e6afd0089aef.jpg 2fec50ff085ab835b6fc2f5677d7579e https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/43e60840994dab557d3374a6efa64515.jpg 1bdf6bd790fc36b7d727fd6fec30eeb3 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7770b0e58d63dbf5948034902ab8d179.jpg b7ae9560926321d4ae8ab4f01f79e9d0 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-078 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Paul Kleinman, May 28, 1990 Description An account of the resource A handwritten letter on lined paper from Paul H. Kleinman to Joseph Ogrodnik Jr, dated May 28, 1990. Kleinman is replying to a letter from Ogrodnik, and briefly discusses the memorial notice he had printed in the Los Angeles Times. He goes on to say that when he wrote to Ogrodnik's parents in 1945, he had not yet heard that the Witter had been hit, and only found out from a WAVE while he was en route from the Receiving Barracks in New York to his new assignment. Kleinman says that he wanted to write to them again, but he had lost the addresses. He then apologizes for not having any photos of Francis, due to wartime security regulations prohibiting cameras on board. He mentions an enclosed snapshot of himself taken during training in 1943, but there is no photo. [It is possible that the photo included with Ogrodnik-055, the letter that Kleinman had written to the Ogrodniks in 1945, is actually the photo referenced here.] Included with this letter is Kleinman's business card. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; United States. Navy; Veterans--Correspondence Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1990 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp United States. Navy Veterans--Correspondence World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/4aae25c4c6a147c38e8a5c99fb29e813.jpg 1be187514a2d44c351dc2e93ac8105e3 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/24d79b94b41f53fc7613e539a24c0c1d.jpg 37940624a6b6553ae5e0d2234e6c350e https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/6d8d949d0d7d980da77d873bfc1201e0.jpg b7915e03815b8179f6c43f1363e002ef Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-077 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Paul [Silance], April 23, 1990 Description An account of the resource A brief typed letter from Paul Silance [he did not sign a last name, but the return address matches his other letters] to Joe [Joseph Ogrodnik Jr] with a card forwarded from Paul H. Kleinman. The note explains that Kleinman had sent Silance six copies of the enclosed card to then forward to relatives of the men killed on the Witter, and provides Kleinman's address in case Ogrodnik wants to correspond directly. Silance notes that Kleinman was a member of "the black gang," indicating that he worked in the fireroom or engine rooms, like Francis Ogrodnik. The enclosed card is a copy of a small newspaper in memorium announcement with the names of the men killed, attached to a card reading "Your announcement as it appeared in the Los Angeles Times, April 6, 1990." Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945; United States. Navy; Veterans--Correspondence Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1990 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2pp United States. Navy Veterans--Correspondence World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/f0e647a497e15aa777443d4c67b20281.jpg d82bde17936e83a83674cdc815531f6f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-076 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Howard Metz, November 1, 1988 Description An account of the resource A brief handwritten letter, dated November 1, 1988, from Howard Metz to Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. The letter states that Metz has sent a photograph and the negative, though no negative is included here. The photograph (item Ogrodnik-075) is of three men, identified here as William McCracken, Howard Metz, and Francis Ogrodnik. The letter indicates that Metz and Joseph likely met at the 1988 Witter reunion. The letter is written in blue ink on unlined white paper, 5.5 x 8.75". [In an effort to keep these items together as they were upon donation, they've been placed in one enclosure in the physical collection. -KO] Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945; United States. Navy; Veterans--Correspondence Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1988 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp United States. Navy Veterans--Correspondence World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/bf74f89b294c3801d4c613b7e7f44297.jpg c4e93a86614d8ee9b38f7a10e961f044 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-075 Title A name given to the resource Photo with bar backdrop Description An account of the resource A black and white photo of three men in Navy uniforms, standing behind a bar with a painted background behind them. The background appears to be the same as in item Ogrodnik-074, but can be seen in more detail here. While the photo does not have any identifying information, it was accompanied by a letter (Ogrodnik-076) stating that the three men are (left to right) William McCracken, Howard Metz, and Francis Ogrodnik. The letter also indicates that the photo is a reprint circa 1988 of a photo taken likely in 1944/1945. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945; United States. Navy Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 1988 (original circa 1944/1945) Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 7" United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/ade1a0e25fa4a0412252949bfb136129.jpg 3e3411ff76fc0f917defc545f5e933b9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-074 Title A name given to the resource "Navy Buddies" Description An account of the resource A small newspaper clipping with a photograph of three young men in Navy uniforms, standing behind a bar. The caption identifies them as (left to right) James Korney of Agawam; Wally Blair of Springfield; William Boyle of Springfield. Not in the photo but listed in the caption is also Ted Tenerowicz of Ludlow, and they are named as the four survivors among five Springfield-area men who served aboard the destroyer USS Emmons, aboard which the photo was taken. The clipping is undated, but research suggests it was from the June 6th, 1994 edition of the Springfield Union News. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945; Sailors Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 1994 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clipping Extent The size or duration of the resource. 4.5 x 4.75" Sailors World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/8358ce1d0e3759fdd59afa6fffc30ccc.jpg 081c15d06217caf5005f24b791cd313a Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-073 Title A name given to the resource "The Witters' Wail" Description An account of the resource A typewritten poem by P. Silance, Y2c, dated 1945. The poem is a comical request for six month's leave from the crew, citing all that they'd been through at the time of writing. Typed in black ink on 5.5 x 8.5" paper, the signature also indicates that it was written while in the South Pacific. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area--Ephemera Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Textual record Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area--Ephemera https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/36d8afd7649acb4cef773145399752ea.jpg 848a31e664a90a485ae94d19b43e89bb Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-072 Title A name given to the resource Reunion group photo, men Description An account of the resource A color photograph of ~30 men wearing suits and name tags, arranged in rows and looking at the camera. There are people on both sides of the image who are only partially visible. While there is no identifying information with this photo, we can assume this is from the 1988 USS Witter reunion, and is likely the crew of the Witter and some of their family members. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 1988 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Reunions World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/405ef6d8e98ef83abc34d06123c1d490.jpg 18470fec0576ee0931d94d6455d961dc Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-071 Title A name given to the resource Reunion group photo, ladies Description An account of the resource A color photograph of 22 women standing in rows and looking at the camera. They are dressed up and wearing name tags, and while there is no identifying information with the photo, we can assume this is from the 1988 USS Witter reunion, and is likely the wives and family of the Witter crew. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 1988 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Reunions World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/a21994f9efd1803858b9b5d8cbfdd3d0.jpg 27085d619c5e713963f267812ba3671f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-070 Title A name given to the resource Reunion photos Description An account of the resource Two color photographs printed on a single sheet of photographic paper, likely of the 1988 reunion attendees. Given the way the two images are laid out, it might have been intended as a panoramic-style photo. The photos feature mostly men in suits, wearing name tags and arranged in rows facing the camera. There are a few women in the lower corners of both images. There are no names or data provided with the photographs. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource circa 1988 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Reunions World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/87e7aeb9dac22a24a5f0c5564a88720f.jpg 4dec89602fb23302eb9374ada784ff73 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-069 Title A name given to the resource Article RE first Witter reunion Description An account of the resource A copy of an article about the first reunion of the USS Witter (DE 636). It states general plans for the upcoming reunion in October of "this year"; from other data we know this was in 1988. The article was written by Paul T. Silance, Yeoman, so while the publication is not named it seems likely that it's Navy-specific. It also provides contact information for anyone wishing to attend the reunion, as well as a photo of who attended the committee meeting to get the details sorted out. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Veterans; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1988 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clipping Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Reunions World War, 1939-1945--Veterans https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/f13da8101f275c1c1c72ca8e078f1df4.jpg f4d189d346dc5ace3ca3fceb7faa76db https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/098a36669b9e1b2808a2c6d2152c5cd2.jpg 4423ce9dcb3f174d5595ceeefd7023c1 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/67e902e49a943692c7ea125020a3d1be.jpg bef6f37aa7c7ab53fd989e1d41760a2e https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7ddee40e8921944e7906544cbba6520f.jpg 5ca508224963b1e10cb56c72b913045b https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/38d9311ef3ab8ca846d68b3b2b94491d.jpg f7ea417b28495f990b59ec43b93d971f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-068 Title A name given to the resource Christmas card from Paul T. Silance, 1988 Description An account of the resource A Christmas card from Paul T. and Mary Silance to Joseph Ogrodnik Jr., thanking him for the pictures and wishing him a blessed and happy Christmas. The image on the front is of Mary, riding a donkey and holding an infant Jesus in her arms, with Joseph alongside holding a lantern. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Correspondence Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1988 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Veterans--Correspondence https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/dd0f8cb49cf2802e3545c656748a2e1f.jpg 51fb46c62adf2eb32009c10bfc3eef5b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-067 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Paul T. Silance, November 15, 1988 Description An account of the resource A typewritten letter from Paul T. Silance to Joseph Ogrodnik Jr, thanking him for sending photos of the first Witter reunion. He writes that he is going to use some of the photographs in an article for the DESA News. From the letter, it seems Joseph attended the first reunion in Chicago, and as an "honorary member" of the Witter, was expected to be included in other reunions going forward. The letter has some "letter drop" where the keys for various punctuation have pierced the paper. The letter has fold lines indicating that it was folded into a small rectangle, and it might have been mailed with the Christmas card that comprises item Ogrodnik-067. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Correspondence; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1988 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Reunions Veterans--Correspondence https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/300977a1b1bccfbb73d764b2f5a32e52.jpg 0f1e8c9476e6ea252c2d07b8d7e0bc5d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-066 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Paul T. Silance, June 7, 1987 Description An account of the resource A brief handwritten letter from Paul T. Silance to Joseph Ogrodnik Jr, responding to an unspecified request regarding a Witter reunion. Silance writes that he and others are planning a committee meeting and generally getting things going for a reunion in 1988. The note is in blue ink on lined white paper, single-sided. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Correspondence; Reunions Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1987 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Reunions Veterans--Correspondence https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/df53af44b799cbbf70c0ca483aae46ae.jpg 8a7c74523252d4bc916a5bc00aa961cb https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/33cbc0ea4ee35ea0378cfd5a884bdcce.jpg 66848b40f2c75120d52db49b83e38c8a https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/c2180ddf69832efb2cf437c4d61be54d.jpg e7632ebe3044b4343e56e7a17d2e3b90 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/f99b40f089e9fef2a3c831abd4f614fd.jpg c55117ad2da74cca66e966ca56bb4df1 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-065 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Paul T. Silance, December 7, 1983 Description An account of the resource A handwritten letter to Joseph Ogrodnik Jr from Paul T. Silance, dated December 7, 1983. Silance wrote "after I got over the shock of reliving a traumatic experience of some 38 years, I tried to search my memory for that boy's face. Frankly, I did not succeed." While he does not specify who he's referring to, it seems likely "that boy" is Francis Ogrodnik. He goes on to describe briefly the events of April 6, 1945, stating that he was "stationed as Captain's phone tacker" and was thus was on the bridge when the plane struck. He references a copy of the memorial service that he sent Ogrodnik, but it's not clear if it was included in this mailing or was something Ogrodnik already had. He notes that while he is not sure of the exact fate of Francis Ogrodnik's remains, it was likely that he was buried in a memorial grave on Okinawa. The letter is written in black ink on lined white paper, and is two single-sided pages. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Correspondence; Aerial attacks; World War, 1939-1945 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1983 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2pp Aerial attacks Veterans--Correspondence World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/206889b598e1e63c7d403f7215ff8dbc.jpg e1d67a3afe639566f1b6116dbfe02c39 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0a2b9f080525bf363d3f66dd5b1c5f8c.jpg 8e6fb97b20d4d1acfdce5e6062321789 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/dc33f5adaf121aaa88965a9cafee2245.jpg f5ad7ff2102af7de9e36c235fe2bcebb https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/14cb5f103ddd9323e3fd93447b04038b.jpg 6c0bcf5af4d2526a9e9fee303e75c65c Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-064 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Allan G. Schwartz, November 5, 1983 Description An account of the resource A handwritten letter to Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. from Allan G Schwartz [someone noted his name on the upper left corner of the letter, misspelling it as "Schwarts"], providing his memories of serving on the USS Witter and of Francis Ogrodnik. Schwartz explains that due to a stroke he suffered, his memory isn't what it used to be, but he briefly relates the events ending in Francis's death, and notes that "wartime restrictions and censorship left most of us with nothing but bad memories; and a desire to forget and get on with living." The letter is written in blue ink on lined white paper, and is two double-sided pages. Subject The topic of the resource Veterans--Correspondence; Aerial attacks; World War, 1939-1945 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1983 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2pp Aerial attacks Veterans--Correspondence World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/5a5b656f677291bc1f50837a4316358c.jpg 9e177f568df40d2ee05485dadac7acc6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-063 Title A name given to the resource Veterans Memorial close-up Description An account of the resource A color photograph of the Veterans Memorial in Bullens Park, featuring a close-up of the side that includes Francis Ogrodnik's name. The names on the plaques are listed by war, and for the later wars sub-divided by service branch; this side includes WWII Navy veterans (beginning with Jospeh Gosselin) and goes into WWII Marines. Subject The topic of the resource War memorials--Chicopee (Mass.); Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Undated; post-1987 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.5 x 5" Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) War memorials--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/04d245467389196cf5eab692a847a5ed.jpg 2db3b50f2dccd9ade7908fff39aed298 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-062 Title A name given to the resource Veterans Memorial with home Description An account of the resource A color photograph of the Veterans Memorial in Bullens Park with brick homes in the background. There are two cars parked on the street, and a person on the sidewalk. The memorial is surrounded by flowers with a small American flag in the ground, and is centered in a brick walkway with a park bench along the side. There is a wrought-iron fence around the park area. Subject The topic of the resource War memorials--Chicopee (Mass.); Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Undated; post 1987 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.5 x 5" Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) War memorials--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/756e6473d29eeecb57e76ecba1b57523.jpg 94148b0ba5c2885bcffc1b0d39a74588 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-061 Title A name given to the resource Veterans Memorial with flag Description An account of the resource A color photograph of the "front" of the Veterans Memorial in Bullens park, surrounded by flowers and with a small flag in the ground in front of it. The memorial is four-sided, and this image shows the side engraved "Veterans Memorial," with a plaque of names above it. There is a park bench and a tree behind the memorial, and a person in the far background walking by the Post Office. Subject The topic of the resource War memorials--Chicopee (Mass.); Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Undated; post-1987 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.5 x 5" Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) War memorials--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0b1573e3413bf10c43b171609aa8dbd2.jpg bd301b6e99ccdf963f4275f5b9619308 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-060 Title A name given to the resource Bullens Park Veterans Memorial Description An account of the resource A color photograph of the brick walkway leading up to the Veterans Memorial in Bullens Park, with the Post Office beyond. Located at the intersections of Cabot and Center Sts, the memorial lists Chicopee casualties from the American Civil War through the bombing of the US Embassy in Lebanon in 1983. The photo is undated, but the monument was dedicated in 1987, and the photo was taken in the summer. Subject The topic of the resource War memorials--Chicopee (Mass.); Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Undated; post-1987 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.5 x 5" Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) War memorials--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/40ee468baa4527162eb77cf37b5b3a71.jpg ec6451552557273d346b0d53a6d7ec8d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-059 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Richard Speer, Naval Historical Center Description An account of the resource A letter to Mr. Ogrodnik (Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.), dated November 17, 1983, from Richard T. Speer of the Ships' Histories Branch of the Naval Historical Center. The letter is a brief response to Joseph's information request, noting that the information requested is enclosed. It also provides an address for Joseph to write to for a list of Witter crew members. This letter is followed by a few photocopied pages from the Dictionary of American Naval Fighting, which have not been digitized due to copyright restrictions. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); United States. Navy--Records and correspondence Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1983 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy--Records and correspondence https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/06fe1e8e8a713201f6ba7ccbeef66d89.pdf fe8e952f54a20c999e3b36d32fde2900 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-058 Title A name given to the resource Set of copies of Francis's service records Description An account of the resource A set of 25 sheets, each approximately 5" x 9", that are copies of Francis Ogrodnik's service records. Set includes his enlistment information, induction into the Navy, various related tests/exams, next of kin and beneficiary information, and assignments/promotions. Packet was stapled (staples have been removed), and all sheets have two holes along the left sides for insertion into a ringed binder/similar. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); World War, 1939-1945; United States. Navy--Personnel records Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Originals 1943-1945; copies undated Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Textual record Extent The size or duration of the resource. 25pp Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy--Personnel records World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/64ae682245561ce22bf6ebe9fe736aa5.jpg 0601859431b1fdfd389e1aa03a37c97e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-057 Title A name given to the resource Letter awarding posthumous campaign medals Description An account of the resource A typewritten letter to Mr. Joseph Ogrodnik, dated September 24, 1948, posthumously awarding Francis the American Campaign Medal and the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal. It references an enclosed bulletin that explains the significance of the medals, but the bulletin is no longer with the letter. It is signed by M. Lanham, LTJG., USN, Director, Service Medals Division. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); United States. Navy--Medals, badges, decorations, etc. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1948 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy--Medals, badges, decorations, etc. https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/360274ff0a4a234024ed9c5aba12e364.jpg e2a3819245804a85d73a0db42786d693 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-056 Title A name given to the resource Copy of September 5, 1945 news article RE the Witter Description An account of the resource A copy of a newspaper article, newspaper not named, dated September 5, 1945 regarding the plane attack on the USS Witter. It reports that the Witter was in the Navy yard in Philadelphia at the time of writing, and relates the events of April 6. It includes a photograph of crewman Bob D. Fanelli, who it names as a Philidelphia resident and former employee at the Bulletin, suggesting this may be from the Philadelphia Bulletin, a daily evening paper that ran from 1847-1982. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Navy; World War, 1939-1945 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Original 1945, copy undated Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newspaper clipping Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0ecba5413319ad1e3784ae589c663905.jpg a4f3dd46d57337623aaeaaffd60318e2 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/25ef2fd122c63ecc0c6c7ce730c8613b.jpg 6ec879e9d278496ef5c1e39eed360ca5 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/72cab498c6efe4aac05eb587525af986.jpg 8fa0cd6af23619e4119a651749f57398 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/db1a11fac712d2ebfba41aa4e7cfd442.jpg 2d615c8b507084cf04e1608d4cb7b4f3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-055 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Paul H. Kleinman, April 16, 1945 Description An account of the resource A letter written to Mrs. Ogrodnik from Paul Kleinman (1926-2007) a shipmate of Francis's who had been transferred home. The letter is dated April 16, 1945, and reassures Mrs. Ogrodnik that Francis "is in the best of health and spirits, and is looking forward to the day he can be with you again." Kleinman had left the ship before the plane attack, and had not yet been told that Francis Ogrodnik had been killed. The letter arrived to the Ogrodnik family after they had been notified of Francis's death, causing significant confusion. The letter is accompanied by a wallet-sized snapshot of a young man in sailor whites smiling at the camera, signed on the reverse by Kleinman. The snapshot has very faint writing under the signature that seems to read "1952," so the photo may have been provided later and placed with the letter by the family. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); United States. Navy; World War, 1939-1945--Correspondence Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp, 1 Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Correspondence https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/665f9d835a0ff3998d720dac5ea6e5c4.jpg 718b82abdcbb3474a60de7d1e82d2504 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/97cc38eccd16d908f5e1aa7b0cf5388c.jpg c20fe61b45e59b423c66bf9d85599943 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-054 Title A name given to the resource Copy of death certificate Description An account of the resource A copy of the death certificate for Francis Ogrodnik, printed on two sheets. Across the top of the original was handwritten "26056-A-6-5 03." There are several handwritten checkmarks and stamps in various fields copied over from the original. Under "cause of death," it states "killed in action, details not known," and where a fingerprint would go it instead says "remains not recovered." The reverse of the certificate, copied onto a separate sheet of paper, was signed by the Witter's commanding officer. Much of the front of the original certificate has come through onto the copy of the reverse, suggesting thin paper for the original. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); United States. Navy--Death certificates; World War, 1939-1945 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Original 1945; No date for copy Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Death certificate (copy) Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2pp Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy--Death certificates World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/4c926f1ee0c23d6dd3cc9bf253d61e94.jpg bf5dd509e41b593fe3ae0086c5be7523 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-053 Title A name given to the resource Copy of memorial service program Description An account of the resource A copy of the typed on-ship memorial service program for Francis Ogrodnik and the other men who were killed when the ship was struck, dated April 24, 1945. A note has been made at the bottom of the original reading "kamikaze attack." Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); United States. Navy; Memorial service programs; World War, 1939-1945 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Original 1945; No date for copy Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Memorial program Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Memorial service programs Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/70c81f317285ce92706a6c04ab0dc3f8.jpg b0ba3e26571cc9e20df64f0479c737ff https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/c9b3c0aa4c6d9494acf2b42e71b3147f.jpg 9d0565d24b1945184c566bce4a30b03d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-052 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Lt George Herrmann, 18 April 1945 Description An account of the resource A single-sheet typed letter addressed to Mrs. Caroline Julia Ogrodnik from the Commanding Officer of the Witter regarding Francis's death. Lieutenant George Herrmann III reports that he notified the Navy of Francis's death; relays his and the crewmen's sympathies; and apologizes for not being able to share more information due to military restrictions. The letter is signed, and an address is written on the back in pencil, but there is no accompanying envelope. There are holes and a rust mark from a staple in the upper left corner, but whatever was attached is no longer with the letter. Several of the periods within the text are punched through the paper. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.)--Death notice; United States. Navy; World War, 1939-1945 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.)--Death notice United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/becf30e382c64a9d8cec53a58b66a455.jpg 201b6e5f025953d3d846d9420c66fed0 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/3abd35ecdec1ed2497aef53fb58056a1.jpg 0b7c577cbcb9af8196322a3586505692 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-051 Title A name given to the resource Telegram & Clippings Description An account of the resource A sheet of paper with a telegram, the envelope, and two newspaper clippings attached to it with double-sided tape. All items relate to Francis Ogrodnik's death aboard the USS Witter (DE 636). The telegram, dated April 12 (no year, but we can infer 1945), is the official notification sent to Francis's parents from the Navy to inform them he had been killed in action, and would likely be buried at sea "or in locality of death." The telegram concludes by asking them to not divulge the name of his ship or station "to prevent possible aid to our enemies." It is "signed" by Vice Admiral Randall Jacobs, Chief of Naval Personell [sic]. The clippings on the reverse side have no date or indication of what newspaper they're from. One is an obituary for Francis with a photo of him; the other is a partial clipping titled "List 25 Navy Casualties," which includes Francis Ogrodnik and two other deaths, and is cut off following two wounded. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.)--Death notice; Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.)--Obituaries; United States. Navy; World War, 1939-1945 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence; newspaper clippings Extent The size or duration of the resource. 1pp Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.)--Death notice Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.)--Obituaries United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/4c2775ae4928db0c17786a54132ce848.jpg 1fa8add86c6745c009003d243549f628 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/a8a7e8e47ec9d4fda83820bcaae03374.jpg 0305d8f6115b8774ce8e7d7c4700f927 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-050 Title A name given to the resource Hello everyone, December 15, 1944 Description An account of the resource A letter written in pencil on thin paper with a United States Navy letterhead. Dated December 15, 1944, the letter is from Francis to "everyone," and is two pages single-sided. Francis discusses a test he's just taken for an advancement in rating that he's confident about; another letter he wrote to a Helen Mistuika (the spelling of the last name is difficult to read); and a letter he received from Elaine in Springfield in which "she misses me quite a bit from what she writes. So don't they all, I don't know why." He asks after an Eddie who was supposed to visit his family, and then concludes the letter. There is no envelope with this letter, and the pencil is fairly light, making it difficult to read. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.)--Correspondence; United States. Navy; World War, 1939-1945 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2pp Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.)--Correspondence United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/2b1279ab2f74dd4ce3a00f139e4b7215.jpg eed336f964c868ea006b4b5026f0bb83 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/2e887fd3e6ba5a6abb7df5b3e2dcb486.jpg e82eb704e7ac32e86354bf952635c437 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/e52ed24a74490c57dcdb6426b32aea9a.jpg 97b08e074f79036015ae585f3fac632d https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/09f4820acd0821470bc53d396daa8ee7.jpg fa522e31f4082b591e6741d80dc561c8 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-049 Title A name given to the resource Dear Mom and family Description An account of the resource An undated letter (postmarked November 14, 1944) written by Francis to his mother & family. The letter is two pages, single-sided, and written on Air Mail-branded paper. He states that "a lot of things have happened that I can't mention, otherwise you would know why it's quite more difficult than ever to write," and briefly references attacks by the Japanese. He mentions having voted for FDR but not knowing if he was elected or not; and says another sailor from Springfield has been sharing newspapers with him whenever he can. He writes that they have not received mail in a long time, and thus has no idea what might be going on at home. The envelope is addressed to Mrs. J Ogrodnik, and sent from "Francis Ogrodnik WT 3/C U.S.N.R., U.S.S. Witter (DE 636) E Div., c/o Fleet Post Office San Francisco, Cal." The envelope was stamped as passed by the Navy censor. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.)--Correspondence; United States. Navy; World War, 1939-1945 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2pp Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.)--Correspondence United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/57bbe26ff5a2c517626c943204263e20.jpg a7912ad7392e53b82554480f2b68bf1d https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/3d67d193e3b9b91c9d8618821d86681e.jpg 962dd95e479f65570bbe24198cb207e0 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/9c2d2a4c73041ef191362f511e3c15e7.jpg 4312a80736a7d3ceec2da06aff7a672d https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/f0503c9c4cd7ca3fdfbf854f890a1000.jpg aa0761c543fb933535891bc33850287f https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/db99ae610101238a0884b6be0acc08c2.jpg 849a7415edb66cbac1c0e94df988ce11 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/bba52e7390d026157017cb7fd5153565.jpg 9336d0c0242b84cd9fe879f8d4cc273a Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-048 Title A name given to the resource Dear Mother, August 15, 1943 Description An account of the resource A two-leaf (four page) letter from Francis to his mother, dated August 15, 1943. This letter is written on both sides of each sheet; paper has a "United Nations Victorious" logo in the upper left corner of each page. Written while at the University of Minnesota Naval Training School, Francis describes being a Corporal of the Guard (spelled "gaurd') and the overall functions of the guard unit. He describes spending his day off in town looking for a camera; and then attending Mass the next day and singing in the choir. He mentions that after Mass a photographer took a "picture of us," possibly the group photo included in this collection (item CPL-Ogrodnik-046). He discusses adding "stickers" to his uniform that indicate he is a fireman; he also discusses the technicalities of his rank now vs when he gets on a ship "in November or December." The envelope is addressed to Mrs. Joseph Ogrodnik, from F. J. Ogrodnik F 3/C CO-11; N.T.S. M.M. Farm Campus, Dexter Hall, University of Minn, St Paul Minn." The back of the envelope is marked "V-mail" in pencil. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); United States. Navy; World War, 1939-1945--Correspondence; Naval Training School (University of Minnesota) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2pp Naval Training School (University of Minnesota) Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Correspondence https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/89a27f68edfa1c01c7c61dcf7e9abfd8.jpg 38d58d2b27d72946150d07dbd7a8f5d1 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/081b0e2bc07a4dc262cfc6ecb2b35ddf.jpg 716ee3040f08b64dfd7a444848b0e6c0 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/e779bfabfd8ed7788aafef5997b48ac7.jpg e5e00547662f4bec1705d2a0f62efa77 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/867292610c33face8931176ed6088fa4.jpg fc5039f3f54865b36c4651adcea1fd98 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/b0b17f44cac96ed32e0824c965ab7d12.jpg 9af30db9f4d9184610407d317629f669 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-047 Title A name given to the resource Letter home, March 14, 1944 Description An account of the resource A three-page letter home from Francis, dated March 14, 1944. The letter included a flower (possibly a carnation) that has stained the pages. The paper is quite thin, and is watermarked "American Trust Bond." In the letter, Francis congratulates a family friend who is getting married, and lists off several places that he's been during his service, and says that there are several other places but he can't tell them yet. He also states that his appearance has changed drastically, and nobody at home would recognize him, also saying he'd love to surprise everyone when he's granted his first "liberty in the States." He signed off "your son Francis," and wrote Francis Ogrodnik WT 2/C OSNR" along the bottom of the final page. The envelope is addressed to Mr. Joseph Ogrodnik, and is stamped "PASSED BY NAVAL CENSOR" with initials in the middle of the stamp. The envelope's postmark is dated 1945; it's unclear if this envelope was mistakenly placed with this letter, or if the letter's sending was significantly delayed by the Navy/armed forces. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); United States. Navy; World War, 1939-1945--Correspondence Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Correspondence Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3pp Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Correspondence https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/9b6c64a2bd330fb7cafbc13277930db8.jpg 17fc5b991bd93bd5a0499ff15d0fca12 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/e81dfc665e79e0cf5b2eace4987de7e8.jpg 3fe2643d251485df693d5b68b304d7db Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-046 Title A name given to the resource Corpus Christi Church "Service Men's Club" Description An account of the resource A black and white group photo of a large group of men, mostly in military dress, in front of the Corpus Christi Church of Saint Paul, Minnesota. The photo is labeled along the bottom as "CORPUS CHRISTI CHURCH SERVICE MEN'S CLUB SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA; AUGUST 15, 1943." The photographer logo in the lower right corner reads "Wright Studio." The paper used has the "this paper manufactured by Kodak" marks on the back, suggesting this is a 1990s reprint of the original photograph. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); United States. Navy; World War, 1939-1945 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1990s Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 10 x 8" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/b294bc26a279fd202ec9d0cf534d26c8.jpg 06b772d6a03a3840e34dd3000597eada https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/26698edd6fc3d5b3533ed956f83daa46.jpg ddfa5b7b63d4c1a3fb12c7503de10f83 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/123a7c4b85f351ef9b80555dced6f722.jpg b7292ac52603acf0ab46676a2cba6c11 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-045 Title A name given to the resource Co. II Mach. Mates, 1943 Description An account of the resource A black and white group portrait of 13 men in Navy blues with caps. The front row is seated, the back row is standing, and there is a brick building in the background with some ivy and a tree. The bottom of the images is labeled "CO II - MACH. MATES - 1943; U.S. NAVAL TRAINING SCHOOL UNIVERSITY of MINN." There is a photographer logo in the lower right corner of the image. The reverse of the photograph is identified as Kodak paper, suggesting this is a circa-1990s reprint of the original photograph. The picture is accompanied by a photocopied paper with several signatures on it, likely copied from the back of the original photograph. A small note has been added in the lower left corner in pencil, reading "logo," to maintain the correct orientation since the signatures are in all directions. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); United States. Navy; World War, 1939-1945; United States. Naval Training School (University of Minnesota) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1990s Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 10 x 8" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Naval Training School (University of Minnesota) United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/5ead6f3058e007d826aee0bcab0dcd97.jpg 35682625e553bbf12bc33e2cb3fa9b16 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/52f0f0aba00f72bb2fc13ec2e03e869d.jpg 436d10342c2665537d8c7add4bffc967 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-044 Title A name given to the resource Francis & co on the front step Description An account of the resource A black and white snapshot of Francis standing with three women on the front steps of a house. Francis is in khakis with a dixie-cup style cap, and the women are wearing dresses or skirts/blouses. All are smiling at the camera. The house is white with darker wooden shutters, and is numbered 544 above the steps. There are shrubs in front of the windows. The photo is stamped "25" on the reverse in faded/faint black ink. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); Sailors--Families Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2.75 x 4.5" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Sailors--Families https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0f4f7093061236eae3df5024a0d74cf4.jpg abd2693c9dae4c1ee2af3e7b08675661 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/b4b0ae6ea0ef6d4d8d4398e03d55c669.jpg c05f6df366ba993ac5915d2442fbaa62 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-043 Title A name given to the resource Francis & friends at a well Description An account of the resource A black and white snapshot of Francis with several other people around a stone well. Francis is in khakis with a dixie-cup style cap, and is leaning on the edge of the well with his arm around a person. There are five other people standing around the well or sitting on the edge; they appear to all be women, though with the light and shadowing it's hard to tell. There is abundant shrubbery and plant life all around the area. "25" is stamped on the reverse in faded/faint black ink. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2.75 x 4.5" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/4d5150ac0986a26d0054e0e665af0239.jpg 876f7173f5d126c4a91123195758071d https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/2b6a9ea255442fd4301a1fd3803df78d.jpg 1e15626886e3c65901b4c29c99bbba12 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-042 Title A name given to the resource Francis with woman Description An account of the resource A black and white snapshot of Francis and a woman sitting on a wooden bench outside. Francis is wearing his Navy blues with cap, with his arm around the woman. She is wearing a skirt and blazer, and both are smiling at the camera. There are trees behind them, and a hut-type building in the background. The style of the bench and the building suggest that the location is not local, or perhaps a tourist destination or park. The back of the image is stamped "25" in faded/faint black ink. There are two small tears in the edges of the photo, approximately in the middle of the long sides. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2.75 x 4.5" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/085b034c5d482d34d33eec6067ab27c8.jpg 964d8256850c380b4e8cf217c538451a https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/90ee364fcae5d38e1ac78da94181e049.jpg 92b1c84622eed58a62db8c6eaaaa553f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-041 Title A name given to the resource Francis saluting the flag with family Description An account of the resource A black and white snapshot of Francis standing outside saluting an American flag, with several people around him, likely his family. A man holds the flag line on the pole; a young boy in front of him. Behind Francis is another boy and a woman. Francis is wearing his Navy whites with cap, and they are all standing in front of a house with several shrubs around it. The edges of the photograph are die-cut, and there is an address label for Joseph Ogrodnik taped to the reverse of the photo. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); Sailors--Families Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2.5 x 3.5" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Sailors--Families https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/15a183f74cb6344b7dc3a6e180539ec5.jpg 0af68403722d584f13e23ded01a0a941 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/00d8e57f1d6b37a2f4c947fa621dc656.jpg 58fd80a278ae190aa36a4b6fe5c75d74 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-040 Title A name given to the resource Francis saluting the flag Description An account of the resource A black and white snapshot of Francis saluting the American flag, in the company of a man and a young boy, possibly his father and brother. The three are standing outside, and there are trees and shrubs in the background. Francis is wearing his Navy whites, with cap; the boy is wearing shorts and a short-sleeved shirt; and the man is wearing long pants, a white shirt, and suspenders. The edges of the photo are die-cut, and "014" is stamped on the reverse in black ink. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); Sailors--Families Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2.5 x 3.5" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Sailors--Families https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/e08ac9e1d5b0c22dc4de8300b8707ac9.jpg 7b591bcb138cfb0ddeebd45f3f5297b6 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/23e8134413ab23d02c09bcaf801cd5d2.jpg a9f131b8de665c24887b420b210b6c4b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-039 Title A name given to the resource Francis with American flag Description An account of the resource A black and white snapshot of Francis outside with two unidentified boys, likely his siblings. Francis is kneeling in the forground with one of the boys, and they are both examining an American flag attached to a line. Francis is in his Navy whites, sans cap, and the boy is wearing shorts, a short-sleeved shirt, and sneakers. The second boy is in the background, leaning against a flagpole with one hand and holding the other end of the line with the other. He is wearing long trousers and a short-sleeved shirt. There are trees in the far background of the photo. The edges of the photo are die-cut, and back is printed "014" in black ink. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); Sailors--Families Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2.5 x 3.5" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Sailors--Families https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/be374c9c62816294ac20c4b92f36bfa4.jpg f902603d8826ed2dda762230c98c8511 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/1856ff40169ff8702125f258bf68eb1f.jpg 03e8835b15382304052407696f5c7e20 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-038 Title A name given to the resource Francis at outside table Description An account of the resource A black and white snapshot of Francis Ogrodnik sitting at an outside table with an unknown second. He is wearing Navy whites without a cap, and she appears to be wearing a sleeveless dress; only her upper arm and a portion of her hair is visible. There are shrubs or small trees behind them. The edges of the photo are die-cut. The reverse is stamped "014" in black ink. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2.5 x 3.5" Chicopee (Mass.) Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/ad4662120432f344c306caf647cff9c4.jpg b5b3582ccb0fc01cb4c52dd57ae99931 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/88eede0226fd9d723c46e24502de9396.jpg 1ec7cc67a0d1b819475bc9a1b081e817 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-037 Title A name given to the resource Francis and dog Description An account of the resource A black and white snapshot of Francis Ogrodnik with his arm around an unnamed dog. Ogrodnik is wearing a striped shirt with the sleeves rolled up, and is smiling at the camera. The dog is very cute and is possibly a corgi. They are sitting on something that might be the front of a small boat; there is a helm-style steering wheel. There are trees in the background. The back is labeled "Francis J. Ogrodnik; killd [sic] in Okinawa; April 6th 1945." Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 2 x 3" Chicopee (Mass.) Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/a94de0343b0ac311486ae07170b04367.jpg c1c0b3a9d0f43e1b3ba385dbb6c6ea34 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-036 Title A name given to the resource At the kitchen table Description An account of the resource A black and white photograph of four people sitting around a kitchen table with drinks. One person is likely Francis Ogrodnik; they are wearing a Navy uniform, and holding what might be a beer. To their right is an older man, drinking from his beverage. To his right is a person whose face id partially obscured, and to their right is a woman holding up a drink. There are two built-in cabinets in the background, as well as an open door showing another room with a curtained window. Subject The topic of the resource Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.); Sailors--Families Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.4.5 x 2.75" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Sailors--Families https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/3d841a2722cb940b1bd5500fda6c9fc3.jpg 14b0e06f32b2e68c37cc32fb822977b2 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/3aba21cadeb6f25d65fb9499e95044f5.jpg 8efb6cd9c2bad0b292df37055426889b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-035 Title A name given to the resource Reprinted portrait of Francis Ogrodnik Description An account of the resource A black and white headshot of Francis Ogrodnik dressed in his Navy blues, printed on glossy paper. Written in blue ink on the reverse of the photo is "Francis J. Ogrodnik, killed April 6, 1945 in the Paciffic [sic] Ocean WWII." There is a blue stamp reading "NOV 1983," and a stick-on address label for Joseph Ogrodnik. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945; United States. Navy; Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1983 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.5 x 5" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/be0cc30626259dbb5b76974fd26cd5e1.jpg 63df55cbd8b696287d5560f7f9eb2557 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/97881060ec5e244797d62f0894ebd951.jpg 1754b34dc8350f40afeaa4ca4eaa113b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-034 Title A name given to the resource Unsigned photograph of Francis Ogrodnik Description An account of the resource A black and white headshot of Francis Ogrodnik in his Navy blues. The back has a stick-on address label for Joseph Ogrodnik, a piece of double-sided tape, and is stamped "097" in black ink. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945; United States. Navy; Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.5 x 5" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/5b544db9ee47277729791cd284bc0f61.jpg da299c3b4831b2e7ed63a37651082e51 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/8c3c3b2d17a52bf2062d38d9a7c440a3.jpg 34ffbcb6c712ae400491f2f773e7b145 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-033 Title A name given to the resource "Always, Francis" Description An account of the resource A black and white headshot of Francis Ogrodnik in his Navy blues, signed on the front in pen "Always Francis." The back has a written note, in different handwriting than the front, reading "Sonny Ogrodnick [sic], killed World War II -1945-." Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945; United States. Navy; Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.5 x 5" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/b8819b7d34674615cbe1d0c948a2da45.jpg 165c43ae1fc62de683a152d769186cb0 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/16a82d7785c7647f3a2de81448dc01f7.jpg 19ca8519ccfb581f348bdda62832aa3e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-032 Title A name given to the resource Portrait photograph of Francis Ogrodnik Description An account of the resource A hand-colored portrait photograph of Francis Ogrodnik in his Navy blues. Ogrodnik is looking directly at the camera; there is some blue staining along the bottom margin and lower right margin. The back has "grey eyes, light brown hair" written in pencil. Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945; United States. Navy; Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1943/1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/4c5fb1001941a58173282ae346aa8fdd.pdf b9651b89a22c5bd3505090d3f0ce722c Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-031 Title A name given to the resource World War II scrapbook; copied and bound Description An account of the resource A spiral-bound reproduction of a World War II-era scrapbook featuring newspaper clippings related to local people who served and their families, and covers approximately 1942-1945. The first page is an article from 2000 about the purchase of the original scrapbook by Tyke Papadopoulos from an antiques dealer in Ludlow. The original scrapbook was 122 pages, and featured 674 area residents who served in the military. The original was "procured" by Edwin Pajak for the Chicopee Historical Society. The copy here features an added index of names mentioned, with a note that it was reprinted in February 2000; this copy is approximately 136 leaves, all in black & white. The pages in this copy are hand-numbered, and most of the articles have at least a year, and sometimes a full date. CONTENT WARNING: This book features some derogatory language referring to Japanese people that is used throughout. [Achivist note: Every page was reproduced single-sided, with the reverse sides blank; in an effort to keep the file size down, only the printed sides have been reproduced here with the exception of the insides of the covers. KO 1/8/2026] Subject The topic of the resource World War, 1939-1945--Clippings (Books, newspapers, etc.); Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1942-1945, reproduced 2000 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Book Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11", ~136 leaves Veterans--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Clippings (Books, newspapers, etc.) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Unredacted scan of Ogrodnik-030 (USS Witter Tribute Book) page 133 Description An account of the resource CONTENT WARNING: The image contained on this page is graphic and may be upsetting to viewers. The photo is of a man squatting on the ground, holding the severed head of a Japanese person and smiling at the camera. By clicking the following link, viewers acknowledge having read this statement and description, and assume full responsibility for viewing the image. To view the image, <a href="https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/fullsize/c66bf39400121415a0e4b538a5614525.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">click here (item will open in new window).</a> https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/a3bdc9c37401df62e1036e4f94d2c736.pdf 50a2ac910804a0e5abafa38848f587de Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-030 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636) Tribute Book Description An account of the resource A spiral-bound booklet of approximately 160 pages about the history of the Witter and her crew. Printed by Tony Scala and edited by Joan Ogrodnik, the book "is a compilation of personal stories, history, tributes, patriotic writings and pictures," and was completed in 2005. * A note regarding the digitized PDF: a few blank pages within this item were left out of the digital version to reduce the file size and make it shareable. The original PDF can be requested from the Library. ***CONTENT WARNING: in addition to a some derogatory terms used throughout, there is a graphic photo of a person posing with a deceased person. This image has been redacted from the PDF below, but is available by <a href="https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/items/show/10505" target="_blank" rel="noopener">clicking this link.</a> Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636)--Memorial books; World War, 1939-1945; Destroyer escorts; United States. Navy--Foreign service; Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2005 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Book Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8.5 x 11", ~160 pages Destroyer escorts United States. Navy--Foreign service USS Witter (DE 636)--Memorial books World War, 1939-1945 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/957eb3fcfa1f69e38902f72f38eb64bb.jpg 73af68403663abccb2c62904ede45a4e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-029 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636) Reunuion Association article Description An account of the resource A newspaper clipping that has been mounted on gold paper and laminated. The article is from 2004, and details the October 2004 meeting of the USS Witter DE 636 Reunion Association, held in Fredericksburg, TX. In addition to the "regular" meeting, the group participated in the dedication of a memorial plaque at the National Museum of the Pacific War, and the article includes a small photo of several members standing around the plaque, installed at the museum's Memorial Wall. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; United States. Navy--Foreign service; National Museum of the Pacific War. Center for Pacific War studies--War memorials Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 2004 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newspaper clipping Extent The size or duration of the resource. 7 x 10.5" Destroyer escorts National Museum of the Pacific War. Center for Pacific War studies--War memorials United States. Navy--Foreign service USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/a96aa7710fe809496a6a1af11c5a30b8.jpg 80186a6ba631b91451980f1a1645dd49 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/4c7ce1ab6239375ca994bf7363a3a4e0.jpg 2c62c9b26fdc9b11c45aeafed423ccb7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-028 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), Post-damage Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the entire side of the USS Witter after the plane strike. There are several crewmen aboard the ship, and just above the water-line in the approximate middle of the ship, the hole left by the attacking plane is just visible. The photograph has several smudges along the left side. The back is stamped "Official photograph, not to be released for publication," and has the handwritten note "USS Witter Kamikazed at Okinawa April 1945" in pencil. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa April 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/4602c46f13069bf5f9db0645f6cc1a1a.jpg 54abdc547f832738f2df03ecf4bb888e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-027 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), Undated article Description An account of the resource A copy of an article about the airplane strikes on the USS Witter. The article has no date or indication of what publication it was from, and is reproduced on photo-style paper. The article uses a pejorative term for Japanese people that was unfortunately common at the time. The article is brief, describing the initial attack as well as stating that the Witter had to defend against approximately 200 more attacks while docked for repairs. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newspaper clipping Extent The size or duration of the resource. 3.25 x 6.5" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/c964e119be49ee2423d4fdafc39247e3.jpg 1702100c367288ef7387dd42a6bd8133 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-026 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), 1st Div. Deck Description An account of the resource A reprinted photograph of 28 crewmen aboard the USS Witter, identified by the donor as "1st Div. deck." The men are arranged in roughly 3 rows, and all are wearing the white "dixie cup" style caps except two men in the center of the back row. Other ships are visible on either side of the Witter. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service; United States. Navy; Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1944-1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 7" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/ef2734688c9640890ed37b46990979b0.jpg 62439b77aeddac2f0d66980931ec2cec Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-025 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), 2nd Div. Deck Description An account of the resource A reprinted photograph of 23 crewmen aboard the USS Witter, identified by the donor as "2nd Div. deck." The men are arranged in three rows, with all wearing the "dixie cup" style caps except the man in the middle of the back row. Other men are visible in the background of the photo, as are ships on either side of the Witter. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service; United States. Navy; Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1944-1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 7" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/03059a07adb03a5f204e12cec44c9163.jpg 20eeb7e851be4c73a1156ae5bca8b3ab Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-024 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), Comm. Description An account of the resource A reprinted photograph of 25 crewmen aboard the USS Witter, identified by the donor as "Comm.," presumably the communications crew. The men are arranged in 3 rows, and six men in the back row are wearing peaked caps while the rest are wearing the "dixie cup" style caps. Other ships are visible alongside the Witter, but are unidentified. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service; United States. Navy; Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1944-1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 7" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/e6ade58219ccc55fcb6896100747a851.jpg 3ac29251e471737b79242fe6ddee98d7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-023 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), Ord. Description An account of the resource A reprinted photograph of 21 crewmen aboard the USS Witter, identified by the donor as "Ord.," presumably the ordnance crew. In the center of the back row, one man is wearing a peaked-style cap, while the rest are wearing the "dixie cup" style. Along the top of the image is handwritten "USS. Witter," but the top of the writing has been cut off. Other ships are visible along either side of the Witter but are unidentified. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service; United States. Navy; Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1944-1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 7" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/6742e440bd8aaafbb7ead6b71d1c2852.jpg 4193db673c700ee605944445825976cf Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-022 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), Supply Description An account of the resource A reprinted photograph of 13 crewmen aboard the USS Witter, identified by donor as "supply." There is a handwritten "s" in the lower left corner of the image. The subjects are arranged in 2 short rows; others are visible in the background of the photo, as well as other ships alongside the Witter. The two men in the center of the back row are wearing peaked caps and ties. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service; United States. Navy; Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1944-1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 5 x 7" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/b368ee85ef72b97f810cf6e293c16fca.jpg 6940cb2e0339f79eb5fdb7076d7c0d9e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-021 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), Engine crew Description An account of the resource A rerprinted photograph of 49 crewmen aboard the USS Witter, identified by donor as "Engine." An uppercase "E" is in the lower left corner, and the fourth person from the left in the bottom row is labeled "me," and is presumably Francis Ogrodnik. Most are wearing white "dixie cup" style caps; the second row has several who are wearing peaked-style hats, suggesting they may be officers. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service; United States. Navy; Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Circa 1944-1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 6.75 x 4.75" Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) United States. Navy USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Foreign service https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/c087ca7cfb18067925362943b794deea.jpg 63ac06d70dd535016098eb3457a2001a https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/dad02220bd76e4c12ff823ae3910ae5e.jpg a116f65e6fa5ee0a0a682b652d662510 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-020 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), View of BHD. 43 Description An account of the resource A black and white image of repairs in progress on the USS Witter. The labels read left to right: "U.S.S. Witter (DE 636), view of BHD 43 looking aft. & to stbd., taken 12 Sept. 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 43; Shoring installed to maintain BHD." Reverse is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource September 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/63a5dea50fa0ee0b71348b5a86476f7b.jpg e66b221601857d47379ee8525e8d21d7 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/35021224d39a98592cba75a1aea0c411.jpg a060060dd3224f8024af4414fbc3cf1a Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-019 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), Fwd engine room, lower level Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the damage done to the lower-level forward engine rrom. From top to bottom, labels read: "Propulsion switchboard foundation; L.P. air tank; Temp. repair to BHD. made by AG 70 off Okinawa; Main propulsion wireway damaged by explosion & oil; Lub. oil hand pump; Air compressor; U.S.S. Witter (DE 636) fwd. engine rm., lower level, stbd. side looking fwd. & outbd., from FR 73, taken 18 Aug. 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 38." Reverse is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource August 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/6440e3025f8c4d3f4cbb61dffcad1549.jpg 7a22c9575f10a7d595127ced3c665f14 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/3bf5b1698fec8890b18e95f1c54ef69c.jpg 96a5b32c3c70f7925acef7bb676266f1 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-018 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), I.C. & Gyro room A-310AC Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the damage done in the I.C. & Gyro room. Clockwise from upper right: "Cable insulation damaged by oil; Pitometer log speed indicator; Carbon pile regulator; Gyro compass motor generator sets; U.S.S. Witter (DE 636) I.C. & Gyro room A-310AC, port side first plat., taken 18 Aug. 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo no. 10: Master gyro compass; Amplifier control panel." Reverse is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource August 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/2ff6d48a32b1e9e6756e340565be9815.jpg 670beb7f0e4f13959b70d6ee5e12cb09 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0e5191a6e034ac3555bfbb5507ced5cb.jpg 400b850d468cf1eea9a65837bbe15bcc Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-017 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), I.C. & Gyro room, beam bent & twisted Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the damage done in the I.C. & Gyro room. Clockwise from upper left, labels read: "Main wireway; Beam bent & twisted; Feeder dist. box; U.S.S. Witter (DE 636), I.C. & Gyro room, A-310AC, 1st plat., & looking to stbd., taken 18 Aug. 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, Photo. no. 20; Bhd. demolished; I.C. & A.C.O. switchboard; Vent duct." Reverse is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource August 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/bc543bb42e1f666fb171025079ddd2a0.jpg ab03929d8e8ec117b8d66d9746192c31 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/d69767cebc5ddea67287403e7453ed0d.jpg a3a130ba8f466c6fad13039e22388896 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-016 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), fwd fireroom, lower level Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the damage done to the lower level of the forward fireroom of the USS Witter. From top to bottom, labels read: "Smoke indicator; Aux. steam; F.O. Booster & transfer pump; BHD-FR59; U.S.S. Witter (DE 636), Fwd. fireroom-lower level, port side looking fwd. to stbd., taken 18 Aug. 1945, Photo. No. 28." Reverse is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource August 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/e1ec5891ae424749d0e8803f8bd89a95.jpg 040937fddb405a2f98a562b7a00c89c3 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/6cfc2194a3462b0848f9b74f64335449.jpg c50f770aafa3b27cb28b58bbcafec035 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-015 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), forward fireroom Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the damage done to the forward fireroom of the USS Witter. Clockwise from upper left, labels read: "Main dk.; Temp. Stanchion installed by AG 70 off Okinawa; Fwd. bhd. Of fireroom demolished; Steam drum; F.O. Heater; U.S.S. Witter (DE 636), fwd. fireroom stbd. Side looking aft. To port, taken 18 Aug. 1945, P.N.Y. No. 1621-45, photo. No. 26; Superheater tubes." Reverse is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource August 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns—Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/eec5af05bac0e838beabf5b6ab88272c.jpg c6cfae8056e5cc0332e03f3d53217592 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/2852cf70f36cbb2e0891e047c632b87f.jpg 18bfbbcf09538939944f17472fd5f7d6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-014 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), I.C. & Gyro Room Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the damage done to the gyro (compass) room aboard the USS Witter. Clockwise from the lower left, the labels read: "U.S.S. Witter (DE636) I.C. & Gyro room, A-310AC, looking for'd from frame 52, taken Aug. 1945, P.N.Y. No. 1621-45, photo No. 18; Gyro compass switchboard; fire control switchboard; I.C. & A.C.O. Switchboard; master gyro compass." The reverse is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource August 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945–Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945–Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/6f0e25792118f92f89b2fb370cf93fed.jpg 72985f9a9e7534bd662956281a399f1b https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/cac8d30c011948a26e7d40019ff84586.jpg f96222a395231b40710c6497318e0be0 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-013 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), view of starboard shell Description An account of the resource A black and white image of repair work done on the USS Witter. Clockwise from upper right, the labels read: "Main dk.; fwd. face of boiler; new shell & stanchion installed by repair ship; U.S.S. Witter (DE 636) view of stbd. shell frs. 55-63 showing extent of damage, taken 18 Aug. 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 22." The reverse is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource August 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0f3a144b0b11005ee86e1f21b7ad724c.jpg b099460a05948f453255ab073dfab26d https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/7dcce350600e768fecf407d9dcdb9dc3.jpg 57d37b3de5e10d0f7984357d3649d167 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-012 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), looking aft Description An account of the resource A black and white image of some of the internal damage done to the ship during the plane and bomb attack. Counter-clockwise from the lower left corner, the labels read: "U.S.S. Witter (DE636) looking aft. from fr.56 viewing fwd. stbd. bhd. of fwd. fireroom; taken June 1945, Okinawa, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 25." "Steam drum," BHD. 59 demolished," "1st plat. blown up." Along the top "AR-4 #69" is partially visible. The reverse is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource June 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/d633ff627dc9a1c1e9c5c91c3df76bb7.jpg 3233970cf048ab5b3bb68b12c75f1657 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/afae337a9b90529929076c0963477f54.jpg 0d4c558f5ccaaa2998d5bb55ce11522f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-011 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), looking to port Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the internal damage done to the ship during the plane and bomb attack. Clockwise from the upper left corner, the labels read: "shell; main dk.; 1st plat. blown up; stbd. long'l bhd. bet. frs. 53-59 blown inbd.; U.S.S. Witter (DE 636) looking to port, docked in AG 70 off Okinawa, taken June 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 11; keel; port bhd. of f.o. tank A-2F; bhd. 59 demolished." There are two men viewing the damage from the upper right corner of the photo. The reverse is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource June 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/53010d54e0fafe63dfe60b8a9a24497d.jpg bd2224546939fb7efb5346f3a74ed4e6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-010 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), starboard bottom Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the repair progress on the USS Witter. The white label in the lower right corner reads: "U.S.S. Witter )DE 636), showing progress of repairs, docked in AG 70 off Okinawa, looking fwd. viewing stbd. bottom, taken June 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 10." The image appears to show where several damaged panels have been removed, exposing the underlying structure of the hull. There is a man partially visible along the right side of the photo. The reverse of the photo is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource June 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/6f32723399d72db95a9703ff688f1687.jpg 0bf27ebf787a18ec29f8b75a7e60b2d3 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/9c77b93250b48483cf6dd95aa8df2d78.jpg 3e93ba0b803e84e94ce40839e047cccc Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-009 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), starboard looking aft & up Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the repair progress on the USS Witter. The white labeling in the upper right corner reads: "U.S.S. Witter (DE 636) stbd., looking aft. + up, viewing progress of repairs, docked in AG 70 off Okinawa, taken June 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 9." The photo appears to show where damaged panels have been removed from the hull of the ship so that the "ribs" are visible as well as some of the inner sections of the ship. The reverse of the photo is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource June 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/a2f0881989b04cf32dfa0d1f7d7223e8.jpg 1416bc73da12573bbab6e617fb7b0223 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/cef08f42d30c487ad49245cff0ebafa4.jpg 3f931158c71660f0af8099529ad3f0ed Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-008 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), starboard shell damage Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the shrapnel damage from the plane and bomb attack on the ship. Clockwise from the upper left corner, the labels read: "'F strike'; bomb hole at fr. 67 1/2; U.S.S Witter (DE 636) viewing stbd. shell abv. bilge keel, fr. 64-72, docked in AG 70 off Okinawa, taken June 1945, P.N.Y. no. 1621-45, photo. no. 7; shell perforated by shrapnel [includes several arrows pointing to holes]; bilge keel; 'D' strake; 'E' strake." The image shows a close-up of the hull, with several distinct holes shot through the hull. [The photograph is slightly warped, which appears in the digitized version as faint orange-red streaks along the right side.] The reverse of the photo is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource June 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/af0f6741d9bd37d14d18f17befd9fbbd.jpg 025d9a15288a0bceccea4a800583c21a https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/1cb1f78e583acee72ad1228d9abc5338.jpg 129b9a88710ffcf8343de8bc2a7fb7d1 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-007 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), starboard hull Description An account of the resource A black and white image clearly showing the damage to the hull of the USS Witter. The white text in the lower right corner of the image reads "U.S.S. Witter (DE 636)' Looking inbd. to fwd. viewing stbd. hull, frs. 47-66; showing damage caused by plane crash + bomb explosion; docked in AG 70 off Okinawa; taken June 1945; P.N.Y. no. 1621-45; photo no. 4." The photo shows a large hole torn in the side of the ship as it sits on steel beams. [The photograph is slightly warped, which appear in the digitized version as orange-red streaks.] The reverse of the photo is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication," and shows some water damage along the top edge. Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource June 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/33adedb2d6f04b2eb3527d2c8cafe90a.jpg 5ae6577baa981bb9ea5f83a4505cc8af https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/0a9ea8f4484945a5c327a86992a6c812.jpg 786521a11d08ef0650d2b5b50f8685f9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-006 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), forward starboard damage Description An account of the resource A black and white image showing the damage to the ship from the plane and bomb attack. Labeled in white in the lower right corner: "U.S.S. Witter (DE 636); viewing fwd. stbd. shell showing damage caused by plane crash + bomb explosions; docked in AG 70 off Okinawa; taken June 1945; P.N.Y. No. 1621-45; photo No. 3." The ship appears to be in dry dock, sitting atop steel beams. There are several people standing around the beams, and one person on deck of the Witter. [The image is a bit warped, which appears in the digitized version as orange-red streaks.] The reverse of the photo is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource June 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/3f5fecae3ae08973dc22943daaf14304.jpg 402557cdaf9ab9ce125cf04ade437a82 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/9b0b1933859b55fc515d6c1890601d57.jpg 17673f6103628976c8039dc203a0f967 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-005 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), Engineering Officer Bruno Naczkowski inspects damage Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the hole caused by a kamikaze pilot striking the plane near the waterline. Above the damage, and man in a white naval uniform stands in a doorway. There are several ropes looped around the railings of the ship. The back is stamped "Official photograph; not to be released for publication," and is labeled in pencil "Bruno Naczkowski Eng Off; inspecting damage." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource May 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/642682421fff36b8163819e0acc63cd3.jpg 2406451e43b83b6350ea22b3cd8d46be https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/a861e1c34eadb515fed978d3fa9ac408.jpg 5b32de0abb84a6b110d309a155480faa Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-004 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), anchored off Okinawa Description An account of the resource A black and white image of a ship anchored near a land mass. The photo is labeled in white. The first label is pointing towards the middle of the ship near the water line, and reads "hole made by plane crashing into hull." The second label is in the lower right corner of the photo and reads "U.S.S. Witter (DE636) with fwd. eng. rm. pumped out; taken May 1945; Okinawa; P.N.Y. No. 1621-45; Photo. No. 1". The reverse of the photo is stamped "Official Photograph; not to be released for publication." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts; World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource May 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/b23437724c0938cfd0ef654447cd6984.jpg 6a7c52820569d79f150624ca9b8d017e https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/976cca651838b10e23092eb4c07832d6.jpg 44d9e75cf888e6b849317001b390c89c Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-003 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), port side Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the port side of the USS Witter (DE 636). The ship is at sea, but there is a land mass visible behind the ship's bow. The ship appears to have a crowd of people standing at the stern. Identified by Joseph Ogrodnik as "Port broadside underway, Jan 1944 Shakedown off the coast of California [National Archive 19-N-62175]). Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/9b4195ed684db0831663326952e8202c.jpg 8398c98f01aa4e2b96280ec762acfca4 https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/26437f67f8d52b5e7265a5bdc8739f14.jpg daaaa7c07783718c5104b23af60184f4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-002 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), starboard side Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the starboard side of the USS Witter (DE 636). The ship is at sea, but there are land masses in the background. There are several people on board, but the photo is too far away for any detail. Identified by Joseph Ogrodnik as "Starboard stern, underway Jan 1944 shakedown off California coast. National Archive 19-N-62177." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/d7af5169b456b7f1de069db1ebfd38b8.jpg f7e5a7d2e9f921f083453e79a895c18f https://www.chicopeepubliclibrary.org/archives/files/original/f24bbe82a71ccb34d016dbf9d8355549.jpg 0c7b7bc6ae621e19bbfad123ec37f881 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ogrodnik Collection Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945 United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area Sailors--Chicopee (Mass.) World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Japanese World War, 1939-1945--Aerial ramming World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, American Description An account of the resource Francis Joseph “Sonny” Ogrodnik (1921-1945) was born June 9, 1921, to parents Karolina/Caroline Sagan Ogrodnik and Joseph Ogrodnik [Sr.] of Chicopee, MA. Karolina, sometimes known as Cora, emigrated from Poland when she was 8; Joseph Sr. was born in Chicopee Falls and was of Polish descent. Francis was the eldest son, having an older sister (Lillian), a younger sister (Doris), and younger brother Joseph Jr., who assembled the materials in this collection. Francis attended St. Patrick’s School, graduating in 1935; and Chicopee Trade School (part of Chicopee High), graduating in 1938. After graduating, he worked at the Perkins Gear Company in Willimansett. He was a skilled machinist and tool-maker, and was remembered by Joseph Jr. as being very skilled with engine building and repair. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 13, 1943, feeling that he should serve despite having a deferment option. On completing boot camp, he was transferred to the University of Minnesota to complete the machinists’ mate course; and then to Norfolk, Virginia for destroyer escort training. He was then assigned to the USS Witter (DE 636) at Mare Island, California, and following shakedown cruises to test the ship’s functionality, the USS Witter was deployed to the Pacific theater in early 1944. Francis was a Water Tender 2nd class, assigned to the engines of the ship. On April 6, 1945, while off the coast of Okinawa as part of the invasion (“Operation Iceberg”), the ship was attacked by two Japanese kamikaze planes. One plane was shot down before impact, but the second struck the Witter, destroying an engine room and killing six people, including Francis. The ship remained partially functional, and was able to get to Kerama Retto for repairs. It returned to the States for further repair in July of 1945. Francis's remains were never recovered. Joseph Ogrodnik Jr. (1931-2010) spent years memorializing his elder brother and the others who served with him. "Joe arranged to have a street [in Szot Park, Chicopee] named after his brother as a memorial and also a testimony, among many others in the city, that her residents served their country proudly in the Armed Forces. Joe became part of the Witter Reunion Association and he and his wife Joan enjoyed many years of driving across the country to attend the annual Witter reunions. They hosted the USS Witter's 15th reunion in Albany, NY during September 2003 and the final reunion, also in Albany, in 2008. The last remaining Destroyer Escort from WWII, the restored USS Slater DE 766, is berthed on the Hudson River in Albany. Joe was elected the Witter historian because of his diligent research in locating photographs and artifacts.” [source: Joseph Ogrodnik Jr.’s obituary.] Joseph was himself a veteran of the Korean War, though nothing in this collection reflects his own military service. Sensitive Content Information: Some content (or its descriptions) found in this collection may be harmful and difficult to view. These materials may be graphic or reflect biases. We provide access to these materials to preserve the historical record, but we do not endorse the attitudes, prejudices, or behaviors found within them. This collection includes a graphic image of wartime violence, as well as outdated and derogatory references to Japanese people. The digitized PDF of the item Ogrodnik-030, USS Witter Tribute Book, has been edited to cover the graphic image, with a description of it and directions to view the redacted image by clicking a hyperlink. The physical item has not been altered in any way. The item “Ogrodnik-031,” World War II Scrapbook, contains several derogatory terms that are used throughout. Abstract A summary of the resource. A collection of photographs, textual records, correspondence, and other material related to Francis Ogrodnik (1921-1945), a Chicopee resident who was killed aboard the USS Witter when it was struck by a plane in the Pacific theater of WWII. The collection also contains material related to the USS Witter (DE 636) and reunions of the crew members, and efforts by Francis’s brother Joseph to memorialize Francis & other crew. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Joseph Ogrodnik, Jr. Arranged & digitized by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943-2004; bulk 1944/45 and 1980s-1990s. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Collection processed & finding aid created by Kate Ouimette, CPL Archivist, August 20, 2026. This finding aid is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, Chicopee Public Library/Chicopee Archives Online. Any use of this collection to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text or images is expressly prohibited. Relation A related resource Related content: <a href="https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636" title="National Museum of the Pacific War" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/join-give/tributes/uss-witter-de-636 </a> <a href="https://www.navsource.net/archives/06/636.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavSource Online: Destroyer Escort Photo Archive</a>  <a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/w/witter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naval History and Heritage Command: Witter (DE-636)</a> Extent The size or duration of the resource. Approximately 142 items. Language A language of the resource English Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context CPL-OGRODNIK-001 Title A name given to the resource USS Witter (DE 636), starboard bow Description An account of the resource A black and white image of the ship USS Witter (DE 636), looking at the starboard bow where "636" is clearly painted in white. The ship is at sea, but there are land masses in the background. There are several people on board, but too far away to make out any details. Identified by Joseph Ogrodnik as "Starboard bow, underway Jan 1944 off the California coast. National Archive 19-N-62176." Subject The topic of the resource USS Witter (DE 636); World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area; Destroyer escorts Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Ogrodnik Collection Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Photographic print Extent The size or duration of the resource. 8 x 10" Destroyer escorts USS Witter (DE 636) World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Pacific area