Gold Star Pin

New Orleans native, Frederick Ruckert, Jr. joined the United States Coast Guard in 1943.  Eventually attaining the rank of Yeoman 2nd class, Ruckert was assigned to LST 167 which was launched on February 25, 1943.  The ship set sail for the Pacific in the summer of 1943 and participated in the invasion of Vella Lavella, Solomon Islands in September 1943.  On September 25, LST 167 was attacked by three Japanese dive bombers.  Their approach was not observed by the crew until the last minute.  The crew responded quickly and shot down two of the three attacking aircraft.  During the attack however, LST 167 suffered two direct hits and was also strafed, killing or wounding nearly 50% of the crew.  Yeoman Ruckert was wounded during this attack and died later that day from his wounds.
 
Marcy L. Ruckert wore this gold star pin for her only child, Frederick L. Ruckert, Jr. Gold Star Pins are worn by mothers who lost a son or daughter to war as a symbol of mourning.
 
Gift of Shirley Ruckert.