Elmer Cocke

Elmer Cocke was born on April 7, 1924, and served as a Warrant Officer in the U.S. Merchant Marine during World War II, from 1944 to 1945. He made significant contributions to critical naval operations in both the Atlantic and Mediterranean theaters. His final assignment was aboard the destroyer USS William H. Palmer, which was sunk by a mine in the Adriatic Sea. Elmer survived the sinking, serving as an enduring testament to his bravery and resilience during a perilous chapter of the war. For his service, he received the Atlantic War Zone Medal, the Mediterranean East War Zone Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, and a campaign ribbon featuring one Silver Battle Star.