HistoricSiteMarkers
Postwar & Contemporary

Robert W. Carroll Memorial

San Francisco, San Francisco, California

Marker Inscription

In Memoriam Robert W. Carroll Dedicated to the beloved memory of Petty Officer First Class Bob Carroll United States Navy Seabee Reserve Mobile Construction Battalion Two His dedication and leadership on the Restoration of the North Dutch Windmill was an inspiration to all those who contributed

The Story

This plaque honors Petty Officer First Class Robert W. "Bob" Carroll of the U.S. Navy Seabee Reserve, remembered for his leadership on the restoration of Golden Gate Park's North Dutch Windmill around 1981. The Naval Mobile Construction Battalion he served with donated the labor that helped bring the landmark back from ruin. His dedication inspired the many volunteers who took part.

Why it matters

It records how the skill and service of the Navy's Seabees helped preserve a public landmark, honoring one man's part in that civic effort.

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Related people

  • ยท Robert W. Carroll

Themes & tags

Industry & InventionMemorial

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