Interviewer(s): C. Leza and C. O'Donnell. Thibodaux, LA

Affiliation: University of Arizona

Leon Burcalow was referred to us by another participant in the project. Leon spoke at length and in great detail about his experiences in World War II. Leon also answered questions and spoke to us about his career in onshore oil. He was eager to share some pictures from an excellent book he had on World War II and treat us to some great seafood at a local restaurant. This interview was conducted as part of the study of the links between WWII and the offshore industry.

Leon was born in Barrett, Texas on September 23rd, 1923. He grew up in the oil field in Texas and talks about climbing all the oil derricks in his town as a kid. Leon graduated high school in 1942, and shortly after started work on a subtender and then went into service in April of 1943. After being discharged from the Army in 1945, Leon returned to the oil field, working as a roustabout and doing contract work for about three years. Then Leon was hired on by Humble/Exxon and worked for the company for 31 years and three months.