CMMA Darrell Albert Post

In the heartland of America, in the small town of Nevada, Iowa, a patriotic hero was born. Darrell Albert Post came into this world on August 10, 1912, in a town where the fields stretched far and wide, and the sense of community ran deep. His father, Clare Post, was a skilled mechanic who could mend not only gasoline engines but also the very spirit of his family.

As young Darrell grew up, he attended the local high school, where he not only excelled in academics but also made his mark on the track field. He was a young man with a heart full of determination and a sense of duty that would one day lead him to a path of honor and valor.

In a time when the world was facing uncertainty, Darrell felt the call of duty echoing through his soul. In February of 1933,  he enlisted in the United States Navy in Des Moines, Iowa. With the promise of adventure and the desire to serve his nation, he embarked on a journey that would forever define his legacy.

He was sent to the Naval Training Station in San Diego, California, arriving on February 24, 1933. Here, he started his transformation from a young recruit to a seasoned warrior. On July 26, 1933, he completed his basic training. The USS Arizona awaited him, a mighty battleship that would become his second home.

Assigned to A-division, he served aboard the U.S.S. Arizona. Darrell took on various roles, embracing each with dedication and honor. In November 1933, he not only carried out his duties but also became a part of the ship’s football team, proving that he was not just a sailor but also a warrior on the field.

During his illustrious career, Darrell was selected for training to become a Machinist Mate, a role that required skill, knowledge, and unwavering commitment. In March of 1934, his Commanding Officer commended him for his exceptional interest and participation in athletics, particularly football. He was not only a protector of the seas but also a champion on the gridiron.

Promotions came as a testament to his dedication. From Seaman 2nd Class in July of 1933, he climbed the ranks, steadily rising through all of the enlisted ranks. Finally, in May 1941, he was appointed Acting Chief Machinist Mate, a true leader among his fellow sailors.

Eight years of unwavering service to his country, and it was all spent on the USS Arizona. His loyalty and commitment were unwavering, and he carried the spirit of Iowa with him wherever he went, even as the crew listing incorrectly labeled his home state as California. Iowa was his heart, and his patriotism knew no bounds.

In April 1934, in a letter to his parents, Darrell shared a piece of history. He spoke of Hollywood stars James Cagney and Pat O’Brien, who came aboard the USS Arizona to make a movie. To him, they were not just celebrities; they were regular guys, just like him, bonded by a shared love for their country.

Darrell Post’s story is one of honor, sacrifice, and love for his family and nation. He hailed from a family of hardworking individuals, where his father mended engines and tilled the land, cultivating oats, hay, soybeans, and corn. The Post family’s values ran deep, and Darrell embodied those values in his service to his country.

But fate had its own plans. On December 7, 1941, the day that will forever live in infamy, the Japanese launched a devastating attack on Pearl Harbor. On that fateful day, Chief Machinist Mate Darrell Albert Post stood strong on the USS Arizona, defending his ship and his nation with unwavering courage. Tragically, he made the ultimate sacrifice for his beloved country.

He left behind his loving wife, Winifred Reynolds Post, whom he had married in February 1937. Their love had brought forth a son, who was only two years old when his father, a true American hero, gave his life for the freedom and safety of his fellow countrymen.

The Post family’s commitment to service did not end with Darrell. At least one of his brothers, Donald, also answered the call of duty, serving in the Navy during World War II. The Post family’s legacy of patriotism and sacrifice continues to inspire generations.

Darrell Albert Post’s name will forever be etched in the annals of American history, a shining example of what it means to be a patriot. His story is a testament to the enduring spirit of Iowa and the indomitable courage of the American people. He may have been born in the heartland, but he became a hero of the high seas, a guardian of freedom, and a symbol of unwavering dedication to the land he loved.

Sources: This profile was rewritten by Operation 85 with the help and information provided by his son Jerry Post.   The Nevada (Iowa) Evening Journal; the Ames (Iowa) Daily Tribune; Census; Navy muster roll; grave marker; Iowa Beneficiary’s Application for World War II Service Compensation. This profile was researched on behalf of the U.S.S. Arizona Mall Memorial at the University of Arizona.