| Scope and content |
Putnam's three diaries describe his capture on Wake Island and imprisonment by the Japanese, including problems with food, unsanitary conditions, and daily routines. Putnam also recorded the prisoners' move to Rokuroshi and the reaction of the Japanese to the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Portions of the diaries were written in shorthand, which have been transcribed. Also included is a POW recipe book from the prison camp in Zentsuji, Japan, report, rosters, and other records that reflect the activities of the Marine Fighting Squadron 211. Among the chiefly routine correspondence pertaining to Putnam's military career are letters reflecting the service of Putnam and his men on Wake Island and their subsequent imprisonment. Included are photocopies of letters Putnam wrote to his family and correspondence recommending some of his men for citations. Correspondence includes a confidential letter regarding a clandestine naval operation to Wake Island and post-war correspondence between Putnam and the men that served under his command on Wake Island and between Putnam and his superiors. |
| Access restriction | No access restrictions. |
| Cite as |
Paul A. Putnam Papers (#313), Special Collections Department, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA. |
| Terms of use | Literary rights to specific documents are retained by the authors or their descendants in accordance with U.S. copyright law. |
| Acquisitions source |
Joyner- Gift of Brig. General. |
| Acquisitions source |
Joyner- Gift of Mrs. Paul A. Putnam. |
| Acquisitions source |
Joyner- Gift of Mrs. Virginia M. Putnam. |
| Biographical note | Brigadier General Paul Albert Putnam (1903-1982), a native of Milan, Mich., commanded Marine Fighting Squadron 211, engaging in temporary aviation duty on Wake Island during World War II. He was captured by the Japanese and was sent to Zentsuji Prison Camp in Japan, where he remained until liberated by American troops. He was awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism at Wake Island. |
