I have not read "True American" yet, but am ordering it today. I moved to TC in 1963, so I was not here during the disaster, but have heard many stories about it. I do remember your Dad because I worked at Stewart title in the early 60's which was located behind the old Texas City National Bank on 6th Street. When Fred would go to the bank everyday, he would then come into the back door of Stewart title, saying "Hello" to everyone with a hugh smile and great words for all. Sometimes as he opened the back door, he would start telling a joke as he was walking to the front door and finish it just as he was leaving. He was a great man.

Jack Rowe was my dad he really didn't like to talk to much about the explosion If you have some memories of him, I would love to hear them. He lost many friends and my grandmother. What a horrible tragedy for everyone. Thank you Joanne

Buzz Whiting informed me about this site. I thank him so much. I was Sandy Landtroop. I have very vague memories of the explosion, but I do remember the chaos and having to camp outside our home on 12th Avenue with other neighbors for fear of our gas lines erupting. Texas City was an absolutely great place to be raised in the 40's and 50's. It was a time when the kids played outside, chased lightening bugs and the parents were not in fear one of them would dissappear... On occasion when I have the opportunity to visit with one of the members of my class of 59', **** Dickey, he said the same thing. We were so blessed to be there at that time in history. In our neighborhood, all the kids would play outside and when Mr. Landtroop whistled for Sandy and Lanny, all the other kids had to go home too. Such wonderful memories.

I remember being in 1st grade class when the first explosion occured. On the way to school, we all wondered what was causing the sky to be orange. Dalton Ewing's mom found Dalton, my sister Sharon, and me and quickly took us home.

Helen Jane - - I just found this sight and had to write a note because of the memories of YOUR DAD. You may not remember me but my family (Henry and Rosie) lived across the street from the funeral home. Coming upon the 63rd anniversary of that faithful and faith-filled daybrings backmany memories. I was in the ambulance with Jack and know how suffering and pain first hand was brought to our home town. It has served me well in my life as I became a Hospital Chaplain in my later years and continue to do so on limited basis today. Your dad was very special to me and I don't think there was one funeral he conducted that he did not shed a tear for. I look forward to visiting with you on April 10th even for just a few minutes and maybe share a story or two. May God Bless ---- Don E