Project 888
Name: Donald Jackson LONGWELL
Rank / Rating: S1-Seaman First ClassService #: 769 08 93 DOB: Apr 01, 1925 From: Bath, NY Parents: Spencer David Longwell and Mabel Longwell Went Aboard: May 12, 1945 Age When Ship Went Down: 20 years, 3 months, 29 days Spouse: Children: Grandchildren: Bio Submitted By: Patricia Longwell Byers (Niece) |
 LONGWELL, Donald J |
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Donald Jack Longwell was 20 years of age when he gave his life in the service of his country aboard the USS Indianapolis.
Donald was born on April 1,1925 in Bath New York. He was the sixth of nine children born to Spencer David and Mabel Longwell. Of the nine children, there were five boys and four girls. His youngest sister, Jean Longwell Walters (age 91) who helped with this biographical information, remembers him as a handsome, sweet, fun loving brother.
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| She recalled that he had a girlfriend named Aletha that he corresponded with before his death. Donald graduated from Haverling High School in Bath in January of 1944. Apparently, the school system instituted a mid-year graduation that year due to many of the graduating young men wanting to join the armed services. In the yearbook for that year, he was known for “driving on two wheels”, a reputation for being a "killer" looks wise, and aspired to become a state trooper. A poignant memory sister Jean shared was driving Donald to Geneva, New York as he set out to join his ship after boot camp. Jean was with her parents , sister Ina, and Donald that day. She said they stopped for lunch before dropping him off. Donald went to the jukebox put a nickel in and chose the song , “I’ll be seeing you”. He followed a proud family tradition of military service. His father served in the Mexican-American War and was honorably discharged in 1899. All of his brothers served during World War II. William Longwell: US Army Walter Longwell: Army Air Core David (Cubby) Longwell: US Army Alfred (Mike) Longwell: US Navy During the duration of the war, one can only imagine the angst of the remaining family members wondering if a telegram from the War Department was going to be delivered to their home. On August 12, 1945, that dreaded telegram notifying the family that he was missing in action was delivered. It was followed by another telegram stating: "There is no hope for his survival and that he lost his life as result of enemy action on 30 July 1945 while in service of his country." Not only did Donald love and serve his country but his family as well. This was evidenced by the required letter he wrote upon entering the Navy. Below are some quotes from that letter: "My life on earth has been one filled with joy and happiness. This was due to the kindness of my sweet and dear father and mother." "To Mike, I want you to know you are the swellest and best brother a fellow could ever have. This also goes for Bill, Cubby and Walter J. MY BROTHERS WILL CARRY ON WHERE I LEFT OFF." "All of my sisters, Ina Mae, Betty , Mary and Maryland Jean, are the only sisters in the world that could possibly fit into my life. Truly you are lovely sisters: I loved you with all my heart." Speaking of his girlfriend, "She’s a wonderful girl and if this hadn’t happened, I would have married her. She’s a lovely, kind hearted little lady. If she needs help of any kind, allow her to rest assured that you are always with her. I know you will do this for me." "To my grandmother and grandfather, I send my love until we meet again." Donald was honored by his community. A memorial headstone was placed at the Veteran’s National Cemetery in Bath, New York. This information was entered on July 30, 2025, the 80th anniversary of the sinking of the USS Indianapolis by the following: Jean Longwell Walters: sister to Donald Spencer and Walter B. Longwell, Brian Horner: nephews Patricia Longwell Byers: niece Jennifer Byers Ourednik: grand niece | |
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