Stoker-Oilman,  Koninklijke Marines,

Netherlands  

August 18, 1916 - February 27, 1942

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Born Jacob Adrianus vanHuuksloot, Jaap was aboard the light cruiser Hr. Ms. Java as a 'stoker-olieman' (stoker-oilman) when she was sunk by the Japanese cruiser Nachi on February 27, 1942 during the Battle of the Java Sea. 

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On March 6, 1950, Jaap was awarded the Netherlands Marines "Oorlogsherinneringskruis" (War Commemorative Cross) posthumously - the common service bar indicating 'Krijg ter zee (War at Sea) 1940-1945' and the special service bar indicating 'Javazee 1941-1942'. 

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My grandmother somehow knew that one of her sons had been lost on that fateful day, a feeling that was confirmed by telegraph a few weeks later. Often remembered by his family over the years, Jaap remains immortalized in our hearts. 

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In our thoughts always. Your nephew,

Ron vanHuuksloot