Leland Lee Jenkins

Leland "Lee" Clay Jenkins died February 22, 2006 at Bob Stump VA Medical Center. Lee was born January 25, 1913 in Reno, Nevada; the son of Leland Benjamin and  Ethel Roberta (Creek) Jenkins. Lee was 83 years. Lee retired after a thirty year career in the United States Navy. He was the epitome of the "Greatest Generation", which this nation owes a debt that can not be repaid. Lee was a Pearl Harbor Survivor; received a special commendation from Admiral W.F. Halsey which stated: "Member of a whaleboat crew which was disembarking personnel from a severly damaged ship which was engaged in action against Japanese naval forces off Guadalcanal on the night of 30 Nov, 1942. Was commended by Commander, South Pacific Area and South Pacific Force for mertorius conduct in action. This boat worked for over two hours with two rafts in tow, making numerous trips away form the ship, loading boats and rafts, and returning to unload abreast the cargo nets. During this time, he was fully aware that his ship might depart without him and leave him within a few miles of enemy occupied territory." Lee, as so many Navy veterans was 100% service connected disabled due to asbestos exposure during his service to his county. This damage to his lung caused his death. Lee was  a member of the St. Germaine Catholic Church, Rodeo Club, St. Vincent De Paul and Grandparents Raising Grandchildren. He was always an active volunteer at his grandchildrens' schools. He enjoyed rodeo, fishing, panning for gold and traveling. He and his beloved Bea, who proceded him in death, Oct 17, 2002 ; remained young at heart and lovingly cared for their granddaughter Christina and grandson, Paul. Also survivng Lee is his son Christopher of Florence, AZ; step-children; Rose Marie (George) Sheridan, Bayfield, Colorado and Michael Davis Chambers of Lakeside, CA., and his brother Jimmie J. Jenkins of Shady Cove, Oregon. His sister Peggy Burns preceded him in death.