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Preferred Citation:

H.T. Wilbur Diary, Special Collections Research Center, Swem Library, College of William and Mary.

Acquisition Information:

Purchase.

Processing Information:

Accessioned and processed by Ute Schechter, Warren E. Burger Archivist, in March 2009. The diary was further described by Pat Overton, SCRC Staff, in October 2009.

Biographical Information:

Information about this individual or organization may be available in the Special Collections Research Center Wiki: H T Wilbur

Scope and Contents

Diary of a medical doctor who served in the U.S. Navy beginning July 5, 1942, when he reported for duty at the Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. The name given on the front of the diary is H.T. Wilbur which suggests him as the author. Wilbur was detached for duty to the U.S.M.C. recruiting station, also Washington, D.C.  He writes extensively on medical issues and cases and events encountered during his tour of duty. At the start of his diary he also reflects on his career decision and discusses qualifications and certification, etc.

Beginning January 1943, Wilbur then was on duty on the USS Albermale out of Norfolk, Virginia; other places mentioned are Trinidad; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Recife, Brazil. Wilbur records his observations on a regular basis, but not all entries are dated.

Subjects and Indexing Terms

• Diaries
• USS Albermarle (Ship : AV-5)
• United States. Navy--History--World War, 1939-1945
• United States. Navy--Medical care
• World War, 1939-1945--Medical and sanitary affairs.
• World War, 1939-1945--South America
• World War, 1939-1945--United States