World War II Medal of Honor Recipient. Native American Cherokee Indian born at Pawnee, Oklahoma and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1931. Served as a Commander and Captain of the USS Johnston (DD-557), during the Battle off Samar on October 25, 1944. He led the Johnston and her crew in an attack on a greatly superior Japanese battleship (the Yamato) and cruiser force. In this action, he consistently interposed his vessel between the hostile fleet and his our carriers despite the loss of engine power and communications. By his courage and professional skill he contributed to the defeat of the Japanese counter offensive against the Leyte Gulf, Philippine invasion. Seriously wounded early in the engagement, he and his ship were lost. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, other awards included the Navy Cross, Bronze Star and Purple Heart.
World War II Medal of Honor Recipient. Native American Cherokee Indian born at Pawnee, Oklahoma and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1931. Served as a Commander and Captain of the USS Johnston (DD-557), during the Battle off Samar on October 25, 1944. He led the Johnston and her crew in an attack on a greatly superior Japanese battleship (the Yamato) and cruiser force. In this action, he consistently interposed his vessel between the hostile fleet and his our carriers despite the loss of engine power and communications. By his courage and professional skill he contributed to the defeat of the Japanese counter offensive against the Leyte Gulf, Philippine invasion. Seriously wounded early in the engagement, he and his ship were lost. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, other awards included the Navy Cross, Bronze Star and Purple Heart.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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