Storyteller: Cecil Gomez

Interviewer: Loretta Bertalot

Language: English

Initiative: Tulsans Talk

Description: Cecil Gomez was interviewed by Lorretta Bertalot, about growing up in an extremely poor Mexican family of 12 children. Cecil describes learning to speak English, interpreting for other Mexican families working for the Frisco Railroad and living in the "WYE" in West Tulsa, OK. He relates his military experiences during WWII and what civilian life was like when he returned home.

Subjects: Growing up in the "WYE" in West Tulsa, Oklahoma, Large Mexican family, Childhood memories, Translating for local Mexican families, Frisco Railroad, Urban Renewal, Childhood jobs, Community activities, Family life, Cherokee Rail Yard, Family economics, Military experience, Author of several books about West Side (Tulsa), Cecelia Clinton Elementary, Businesses on West Side, PC 782 Patrol Craft, Morse Code/Semaphore Flags, Aleutian Islands/Attu Island, Shore patrol, Carpenter work/building houses, End of WWII celebrations, Industrial accident immediately after war,