Fifth of Five Bomb Hits...

To this point in the attack, battleship USS Arizona had been struck by four bombs. The fifth bomb hit at 0806 Hawaiian time penetrated the forward main battery magazines, causing a catastrophic explosion that destroyed the vessel seven seconds later.

Arizona burned for two days. Of her 1,400 crew, 1,177 perished. As most know, she still lies where she was destroyed. Of the dead, most still lie with her.

These are the brave Sailors and Marines who died with their ship.
(Full Military & Civilian Casualty Resource for the Attack)

Never forget. Never.

The Message

AIRRAID ON PEARLHARBOR X THIS IS NO DRILL

Message sent from CINCPAC headquarters, 0755 Hours Hawaiian Time, December 7, 1941.

The Attack is Underway

At this moment on December 7, 1941 - 0748 Hawaiian Time - the first aircraft of the Imperial Japanese Navy began attacking Kaneohe. 70 years ago.

Never forget. Never.

TFH 12/7: On the Darkest Day, Sixteen Shined

Today is the 70th Anniversary of the surprise attack by the Empire of Japan upon the United States of America at Pearl Harbor, O'ahu, Hawai'i. I will have additional posts today, which will appear at their correct times in historical context, that is, five hours ahead of Hawaiian Time.

This post is appearing at 0200 Hawaiian Time. The first Japanese aircraft struck Hawai'i at 0748 local, 1248 Eastern.

The attack on Pearl Harbor was a military disaster of epic proportions. It isn't hard to imagine, but it could have been worse (more on that later today). 2,402 Americans lost their lives, 1,247 were wounded. Even in defeat, the courage and valor of the American fighting man shone through the darkness.

• 55 received the Navy Cross or Distinguished Service Cross
• 53 received the Silver Star

And sixteen incredible Americans received our Nation's highest decoration: the Medal of Honor. Fifteen sailors at Pearl Harbor, one Marine at the far western end of the Hawaiian chain on Midway. Of the sixteen, eleven gave their lives.

Today, now, we recognize and honor all sixteen.

TFH 12/6: Captain Angelo J. Liteky, USA

Military chaplains are men of God and non-combatants. Regardless, they frequently put themselves at great risk to minister to their flock: all our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen. On this day in 1967, one chaplain - a Catholic priest - went above and beyond the call of duty to not only minister to his men's souls, but to save their lives.

From Medal of Honor Citations for the Vietnam War:

LITEKY, ANGELO J.

Rank and organization: Chaplain (Capt.), U.S. Army, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 199th Infantry Brigade. place and date: Near Phuoc-Lac, Bien Hoa province, Republic of Vietnam, 6 December 1967 . Entered service at: Fort Hamilton, N.Y. Born: 14 February 1931, Washington, D.C. Citation: Chaplain Liteky distinguished himself by exceptional heroism while serving with Company A, 4th Battalion, 12th Infantry, 199th Light Infantry Brigade. He was participating in a search and destroy operation when Company A came under intense fire from a battalion size enemy force. Momentarily stunned from the immediate encounter that ensued, the men hugged the ground for cover. Observing 2 wounded men, Chaplain Liteky moved to within 15 meters of an enemy machine gun position to reach them, placing himself between the enemy and the wounded men. When there was a brief respite in the fighting, he managed to drag them to the relative safety of the landing zone. Inspired by his courageous actions, the company rallied and began placing a heavy volume of fire upon the enemy's positions. In a magnificent display of courage and leadership, Chaplain Liteky began moving upright through the enemy fire, administering last rites to the dying and evacuating the wounded. Noticing another trapped and seriously wounded man, Chaplain Liteky crawled to his aid. Realizing that the wounded man was too heavy to carry, he rolled on his back, placed the man on his chest and through sheer determination and fortitude crawled back to the landing zone using his elbows and heels to push himself along. pausing for breath momentarily, he returned to the action and came upon a man entangled in the dense, thorny underbrush. Once more intense enemy fire was directed at him, but Chaplain Liteky stood his ground and calmly broke the vines and carried the man to the landing zone for evacuation. On several occasions when the landing zone was under small arms and rocket fire, Chaplain Liteky stood up in the face of hostile fire and personally directed the medivac helicopters into and out of the area. With the wounded safely evacuated, Chaplain Liteky returned to the perimeter, constantly encouraging and inspiring the men. Upon the unit's relief on the morning of 7 December 1967, it was discovered that despite painful wounds in the neck and foot, Chaplain Liteky had personally carried over 20 men to the landing zone for evacuation during the savage fighting. Through his indomitable inspiration and heroic actions, Chaplain Liteky saved the lives of a number of his comrades and enabled the company to repulse the enemy. Chaplain Liteky's actions reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Army. 

Posting Captain Liteky's tale of heroism required some reflection and consideration on my part. I wrote earlier today about my reservations. Liteky left the priesthood in 1975, eventually married, changed his name to Charles, and became a peace and social justice activist. That in of itself is not what troubled me; we're all free to both support a particular world view, and to change our minds as to what that world view is. No, what troubled me is that on July 29, 1986 he renounced his Medal of Honor by leaving it at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial as a protest to the policies of the Reagan Administration and our Nation. My first take was that this was an affront to all other Medal of Honor recipients and the courage and sacrifices they all made for the cause of Liberty and in defense of all of us. Disagree, fine - but keep sacred the award and what it represents.

Then, I read this article originally published on March 24, 2000 from the San Francisco Chronicle. In it, fellow Medal of Honor recipient Paul Bucha is quoted:

When I look at Liteky, I have respect for the courage of his views. It's difficult to be an iconoclast. It's much easier to go along. Men like Liteky are people who should force us to stop and think, and they should not be ostracized and criticized. They are entitled to their views, and perhaps if we listened we'd be better off.

He's right. I was wrong to be hesitant. Captain Liteky's heroism on December 6, 1967 is rightfully set apart from his later life, most of which I would likely have big philosophical problems with. For all our military chaplains - and all Americans - his actions under fire are to be commended and admired.

Liteky's Medal of Honor that he left at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial today is part of the collection at the National Museum of American History in our Nation's capital.

A dilemma

As readers of this space know, most of my regular content fits with the blog title: the stories of heroes, in particular those who have received the Medal of Honor or DSC/NC/AFC. I am ever in awe of the deeds of these great Americans, as I hope all my readers are too.

For December 6, I found a Medal of Honor Citation that jumped off the page at me for recognition (as if any MoH citation is mundane) because of who the individual was. I had started cutting and pasting and writing the blog post when I found out something troubling. This hero later renounced his Medal as a protest against our government and Nation, and returned it.

I am a believer in the United States and our freedoms, including that of dissent. Lord knows I have enough issues with our government that I better believe in protecting dissent. I have a hard time though recognizing someone who rejects that our Nation can legitimately honor his actions while pursuing policies he disagrees with. To me, honoring this man in this space diminishes the deeds, courage, and sacrifices of the other 3,457 recipients of our Nation's highest honor.

Am I wrong? Way off base? There are five USMC Navy Cross recipients whose deeds fell on this day in 1950 I can choose from, or honor all five, as an alternative.

I have a record of honoring heroes with whom I disagree politically. There's only one Medal of Honor since 1900 that was awarded for actions on December 6. I'm just having a hard time understanding how a man who saved 20 American soldiers can reject his Nation's gratitude under any circumstances.

Please let me know what you think. Comment or send a tweet to me @allanbourdius

Thanks.

TFH 12/5: Major Thomas E. Dayton, USAF

The US Air Force's 22nd Special Operations Squadron was based in Thailand during the Vietnam War, flying the A-1 Skyraider. They flew interdiction missions over the Ho Chi Minh Trail, and also supported other operations, such as the rescue of downed aircrews.

On December 5-7, 1969 one gallant airman would not leave a downed comrade to the hands of the enemy. He repeatedly exposed his plane to ground fire at great risk to himself and because of his skill and courage, the rescue was ultimately successful. That airman was Major Thomas E. Dayton, and for his heroism, he received our Nation's second-highest honor: the Air Force Cross.

From Military Times' Hall of Valor:

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Title 10, Section 8742, United States Code, takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Cross to Major Thomas E. Dayton (AFSN: 0-29982), United States Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in military operations against an opposing armed force as an A-1 Tactical Fighter Pilot of the 22d Special Operations Squadron, in action in Southeast Asia, from 5 December 1969 to 7 December 1969. On those dates, Major Dayton exerted all the courage and flying skill at his disposal in a fiercely opposed attempt to rescue a fellow airman from one of the most heavily defended areas in Southeast Asia. During the first two days of this largest search and rescue mission attempted in Southeast Asia, Major Dayton escorted helicopters into the search area on four separate occasions. Despite intense hostile fire during low altitude and slow speed required in this protective role, he repeatedly attacked hostile positions throughout the valley. Designated On-Scene Commander on the third day, Major Dayton continued his heroic rescue efforts with great vigor and determination despite the fact that fifteen previous attempts had failed, and with full knowledge that each return would again place his life in jeopardy. Notwithstanding these tremendous obstacles, Major Dayton persisted in his efforts, with the realization that the successful application of airpower would be the deciding factor. During the final rescue attempt, Major Dayton had to hold an orbiting position over the survivor to divert air strikes away from the survivor's position. Braving hundreds of rounds of hostile fire during these three days, Major Dayton took control of the recovery operation at its lowest ebb and heroically challenged and mastered this successful, unparalleled rescue mission. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness in the face of the enemy, Major Dayton reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Major Dayton also was decorated with the Silver Star (October 8, 1969) and three Distinguished Flying Crosses (10/6/1969, 12/11/1969, and 2/7/1970) for his Vietnam service. The records at Military Times show that he continued his service to our Nation and the defense of liberty into the 1980s, attaining at least the rank of Colonel, and twice receiving the Legion of Merit for outstanding service. The 22nd Special Operations Squadron is today inactive with the USAF, and has no descendant unit.

To Thomas E. Dayton, and all the brave men and women who have defended us in the skies, we say thanks.

Cheers!

On this day in 1933, Utah became the 36th state to ratify the 21st Amendment, repealing Prohibition as established by the 18th Amendment! Talk about a long national nightmare ending.

Prohibition is an interesting topic for the present day, in the case of the "war on drugs" and now-illegal products from marijuana to methamphetamine. Is continued prohibition the answer, or do we remove Federal restrictions and rely on the 10th Amendment and the laws of the states? Legalize everywhere?

With each passing day I'm becoming more libertarian on this issue and leaning towards a 10th Amendment fix. We are on safe ground when we stick to the Constitution.

Gah! Another topic to add to the list of things I'd love to write about when I have the time...

TFH 12/2: Colonel William E. Barber, USMC

William Earl Barber was born November 20, 1919 in Dehart, Kentucky. His service to our Nation began in March 1940 when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. In 1943, he entered Officer Candidates School and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in August of that year.  He landed on Iwo Jima with the 26th Marine Regiment ("The Professionals") and received the Silver Star for bravery and a Purple Heart for wounds received.

After occupation duty in Japan, he returned to the United States in 1946 to continue his Marine Corps career. As the United States once again found itself at war in 1950, then Captain Barber was sent with the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines (the "War Dogs", motto "Ready for anything, counting on nothing.") to Korea.

During the Battle of Chosin Reservoir from November 28 to December 2, 1950 in freezing, snowy weather, Captain Barber's company of  220 Marines was assaulted by no fewer than 1,400 communist attackers of the Chinese People's Liberation Army. They were defending the supply line to the rest of the 1st Marine Division; the survival of 8,000 of their comrades depended on their stand. Throughout the fight, the Marines of F Company could count on one thing: the incredible heroism and leadership of their commander.

From Medal of Honor Citations for the Korean War:


BARBER, WILLIAM E.


Rank and organization: Captain U.S. Marine Corps, commanding officer, Company F, 2d Battalion 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Chosin Reservoir area, Korea, 28 November to 2 December 1950. Entered service at: West Liberty, Ky. Born: 30 November 1919, Dehart, Ky. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of Company F in action against enemy aggressor forces. Assigned to defend a 3-mile mountain pass along the division's main supply line and commanding the only route of approach in the march from Yudam-ni to Hagaru-ri, Capt. Barber took position with his battle-weary troops and, before nightfall, had dug in and set up a defense along the frozen, snow-covered hillside. When a force of estimated regimental strength savagely attacked during the night, inflicting heavy casualties and finally surrounding his position following a bitterly fought 7-hour conflict, Capt. Barber, after repulsing the enemy gave assurance that he could hold if supplied by airdrops and requested permission to stand fast when orders were received by radio to fight his way back to a relieving force after 2 reinforcing units had been driven back under fierce resistance in their attempts to reach the isolated troops. Aware that leaving the position would sever contact with the 8,000 marines trapped at Yudam-ni and jeopardize their chances of joining the 3,000 more awaiting their arrival in Hagaru-ri for the continued drive to the sea, he chose to risk loss of his command rather than sacrifice more men if the enemy seized control and forced a renewed battle to regain the position, or abandon his many wounded who were unable to walk. Although severely wounded in the leg in the early morning of the 29th, Capt. Barber continued to maintain personal control, often moving up and down the lines on a stretcher to direct the defense and consistently encouraging and inspiring his men to supreme efforts despite the staggering opposition. Waging desperate battle throughout 5 days and 6 nights of repeated onslaughts launched by the fanatical aggressors, he and his heroic command accounted for approximately 1,000 enemy dead in this epic stand in bitter subzero weather, and when the company was relieved only 82 of his original 220 men were able to walk away from the position so valiantly defended against insuperable odds. His profound faith and courage, great personal valor, and unwavering fortitude were decisive factors in the successful withdrawal of the division from the deathtrap in the Chosin Reservoir sector and reflect the highest credit upon Capt. Barber, his intrepid officers and men, and the U.S. Naval Service.

William Barber also served our Nation in Vietnam. He retired from the Marine Corps on May 1, 1970. He died of natural causes on April 19, 2002 and rests today with so many of our Nation's heroic dead in Arlington National Cemetery.

William Earl Barber at Military Times' Hall of Valor, including his World War II citation for the Silver Star and Vietnam citation for the Legion of Merit with Combat "V".

The units of his Medal of Honor heroism still serve our great Nation today. 2nd Battalion/7th Marines is part of the 1st Marine Division.

Chuck Woolery, Patriot!

With thanks to the Larry O'Connor Show, I had no idea that Chuck Woolery was on our side and that he's produced some absolutely awesome content! A sample:



You can get the rest of his videos from his site or direct on the Save Us Chuck Woolery YouTube page. What ever you do, don't miss "Let's Tax the Amish". Enjoy, my fellow patriots!

TFH 12/1: PFC Lewis Albanese, USA

Forty-five years ago today, a 20-year old American infantryman fixed his bayonet, charged into a network of enemy defensive positions, eliminated the opposition and enabled his platoon to continue the advance against a superior force. When he ran out of ammunition, he continued to engage the enemy hand-to-hand until he succumbed to his wounds. This is the story of Lewis Albanese.

From Medal of Honor Citations for the Vietnam War:


*ALBANESE, LEWIS


Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company B, 5th Battalion (Airmobile), 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division. Place and date: Republic of Vietnam, 1 December 1966. Entered service at: Seattle, Wash. Born: 27 April 1946, Venice, Italy. G.O. No.: 12, 3 April 1968. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life and beyond the call of duty. Private First Class Albanese's platoon, while advancing through densely covered terrain to establish a blocking position, received intense automatic weapons fire from close range. As other members maneuvered to assault the enemy position, Private First Class Albanese was ordered to provide security for the left flank of the platoon. Suddenly, the left flank received fire from enemy located in a well-concealed ditch. Realizing the imminent danger to his comrades from this fire, Private First Class Albanese fixed his bayonet and moved aggressively into the ditch. His action silenced the sniper fire, enabling the platoon to resume movement toward the main enemy position. As the platoon continued to advance, the sound of heavy firing emanated from the left flank from a pitched battle that ensued in the ditch which Private First Class Albanese had entered. The ditch was actually a well-organized complex of enemy defenses designed to bring devastating flanking fire on the forces attacking the main position. Private First Class Albanese, disregarding the danger to himself, advanced 100 meters along the trench and killed 6 of the snipers, who were armed with automatic weapons. Having exhausted his ammunition, Private First Class Albanese was mortally wounded when he engaged and killed 2 more enemy soldiers in fierce hand-to-hand combat. His unparalleled actions saved the lives of many members of his platoon who otherwise would have fallen to the sniper fire from the ditch, and enabled his platoon to successfully advance against an enemy force of overwhelming numerical superiority. Private First Class Albanese's extraordinary heroism and supreme dedication to his comrades were commensurate with the finest traditions of the military service and remain a tribute to himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

PFC Albanese's unit, 5th Battalion/7th Cavalry is today the 5th Squadron/7th Cavalry, reconnaissance element of the 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division. 5/7 Cav's Vietnam Division, the 1st Cavalry Division, continues serving our nation with its four heavy brigade combat teams and other units in Fort Hood, TX.

TFH 11/30: PFC Charles George, USA

The US 179th Infantry Regiment (In Omina Paratus - "In All Things Prepared") has been part of the Oklahoma Army National Guard since 1921. Fifty-one years ago, the regiment as part of the 45th Infantry Division (Semper Anticus - "Always Forward") was fighting in Korea. On this day in 1950, one brave American soldier engaged the enemy hand-to-hand and then protected two of his comrades with his own body.

From Medal of Honor Citations for the Korean War:

*GEORGE, CHARLES


Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company C, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Songnae-dong, Korea, 30 November 1952. Entered service at: Whittier, N.C. Born: 23 August 1932, Cherokee, N.C. G.O. NO.: 19, 18 March 1954. Citation: Private First Class George, a member of Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy on the night of 30 November 1952. He was a member of a raiding party committed to engage the enemy and capture a prisoner for interrogation. Forging up the rugged slope of the key terrain feature, the group was subjected to intense mortar and machine gun fire and suffered several casualties. Throughout the advance, he fought valiantly and, upon reaching the crest of the hill, leaped into the trenches and closed with the enemy in hand-to-hand combat. When friendly troops were ordered to move back upon completion of the assignment, he and 2 comrades remained to cover the withdrawal. While in the process of leaving the trenches a hostile soldier hurled a grenade into their midst. Private First Class George shouted a warning to 1 comrade, pushed the other soldier out of danger, and, with full knowledge of the consequences, unhesitatingly threw himself upon the grenade, absorbing the full blast of the explosion. Although seriously wounded in this display of valor, he refrained from any outcry which would divulge the position of his companions. The 2 soldiers evacuated him to the forward aid station and shortly thereafter he succumbed to his wound. Private First Class George's indomitable courage, consummate devotion to duty, and willing self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself and uphold the finest traditions of the military service.

1st Battalion/179th Infantry (PFC George's battalion) serves today as a member of the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, which holds the lineage of the 45th Division. This unit, still part of the OK ARNG, has deployed to both Afghanistan and Iraq in support of the War on Terror.

Site Note

It would appear that the United States Army has changed the site for Medal of Honor Citations. This is the new link!

As I am able, I will go back and correct previous embedded links in my "Finest Hour" posts.

TFH 11/29: Staff Sergeant Robert J. Pruden, USA

Robert J. Pruden entered the United States Army in 1968. Promoted quickly, he was a member of the 75th Ranger Infantry Regiment (Airborne). On this day in 1969, his indomitable fighting spirit and courage earned for him our Nation's highest honor.

From Medal of Honor Citations for the Vietnam War:

*PRUDEN, ROBERT J.

Rank and organization: Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, 75th Infantry, Americal Division. Place and date: Quang Ngai Province, Republic of Vietnam, 29 November 1969. Entered service at: Minneapolis, Minn. Born: 9 September 1949, St. Paul, Minn. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. S/Sgt. Pruden, Company G, distinguished himself while serving as a reconnaissance team leader during an ambush mission. The 6-man team was inserted by helicopter into enemy controlled territory to establish an ambush position and to obtain information concerning enemy movements. As the team moved into the preplanned area, S/Sgt. Pruden deployed his men into 2 groups on the opposite sides of a well used trail. As the groups were establishing their defensive positions, 1 member of the team was trapped in the open by the heavy fire from an enemy squad. Realizing that the ambush position had been compromised, S/Sgt. Pruden directed his team to open fire on the enemy force. Immediately, the team came under heavy fire from a second enemy element. S/Sgt. Pruden, with full knowledge of the extreme danger involved, left his concealed position and, firing as he ran, advanced toward the enemy to draw the hostile fire. He was seriously wounded twice but continued his attack until he fell for a third time, in front of the enemy positions. S/Sgt. Pruden's actions resulted in several enemy casualties and withdrawal of the remaining enemy force. Although grievously wounded, he directed his men into defensive positions and called for evacuation helicopters, which safely withdrew the members of the team. S/Sgt. Pruden's outstanding courage, selfless concern for the welfare of his men, and intrepidity in action at the cost of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Robert Pruden rests today in Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN. The descendant of his Vietnam Era unit, the 75th Ranger Regiment (Airborne), is a key component today of our special operations forces for the War on Terror. We are forever thankful for the courage of men like Robert Pruden, and all those who serve or have served with the Rangers.

TFH 11/28: Staff Sergeant Robert S. Kennemore, USMC

On November 27, 1950 the Battle of Chosin Reservoir began. During the opening phases of the battle, one United States Marine sacrificed his body to protect the lives of his comrades. This Marine, a veteran of Guadalcanal during World War II, was Robert S. Kennemore.

From Medal of Honor Citations for the Korean War:

KENNEMORE, ROBERT S.

Rank and organization: Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, Company E, 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division ( Rein ). Place and date: North of Yudam-ni, Korea, 27 and 28 November 1950. Entered service at: Greenville, S.C. Born: 21 June 1920, Greenville, S.C. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as leader of a machine gun section in Company E, in action against enemy aggressor forces. With the company's defensive perimeter overrun by a numerically superior hostile force during a savage night attack north of Yudam-ni and his platoon commander seriously wounded, S/Sgt. Kennemore unhesitatingly assumed command, quickly reorganized the unit and directed the men in consolidating the position. When an enemy grenade landed in the midst of a machine gun squad, he bravely placed his foot on the missile and, in the face of almost certain death, personally absorbed the full force of the explosion to prevent injury to his fellow marines. By his indomitable courage, outstanding leadership and selfless efforts in behalf of his comrades, S/Sgt. Kennemore was greatly instrumental in driving the enemy from the area and upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. 

The Chinese Communist grenade he smothered cost him both his legs. Robert Kennemore passed away at age 68 on April 26, 1989 and rests in San Francisco National Cemetery.

Staff Sergeant Kennemore's unit, 2nd Battalion/7th Marines, still serves today with the 1st Marine Division, steadfastly defending our Nation and liberty.

TFH 11/25: 50 Years of the "Big E"

USS Enterprise (CVN-65)

We are Legend

Ready on Arrival

The First, the Finest

Eight Reactors, None Faster

Fifty years ago today, the United States Navy commissioned its first nuclear powered aircraft carrier, the USS Enterprise (CVN-65). For those fifty years, she has defended liberty in all the world's oceans. She will continue to do so for just a few more years; she is destined to be replaced by the newest American carrier, the PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) by 2015.

To all the thousands of brave men and women who have manned this gallant, pioneering warship for the past half-century, a grateful America - as well as all those who cherish the defense of liberty, wherever they may be - we say thank you.

Please take a few minutes to watch this great video from the US Navy on 50 years of USS Enterprise History.

TFH 11/23: LTJG Eugene Ralph Hanks, USNR

In late November 1943, coincidental with the attack on Tarawa, American forces also attacked and seized Makin Atoll elsewhere in the Gilbert Islands. Flying off of the USS Enterprise (CV-6), fighter squadron VF-16 supported the landings and defended the force against attacking Japanese aircraft.

On this day in 1943, one Naval Aviator led his four-plane flight into aerial combat against a superior force and shot down five or six enemy aircraft himself. Lieutenant Junior Grade Eugene Ralph Hanks, for his heroism to include five straight days - not just on November 23, 1943 - was decorated with our Nation's second highest honor: the Navy Cross.

From Military Times' Hall of Valor:

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Eugene Ralph Hanks, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SIXTEEN (VF-16), attached to the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE [see my note below] (CV-6), during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands Areas from 19 to 24 November 1943. Gallantly leading his four-plane combat team as part of a twelve plane air patrol intercepting a strong force of hostile aircraft on 23 November Lieutenant Hanks fought his plane boldly and with relentless determination and, although outnumbered nearly two to one, personally shot down five Japanese planes and probably another of the seventeen destroyed during the bitter engagement. Again vastly outnumbered the following day, he continued his bold tactics and, despite his disadvantageous position, directed a brilliantly executed attack to destroy ten hostile fighters and two bombers. By his outstanding ability as a leader and an airman, Lieutenant Hanks contributed materially to the success of our aerial operations in the Pacific war area, and his valiant devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.

Blogger's note: Military Times' Hall of Valor lists LTJG Hanks' ship as the USS Yorktown with an incorrect hull number of "6"; Yorktown was CV-5 and furthermore was sunk at the Battle of Midway on June 7, 1942. I have made the correction above because I believe it to be accurate. Whether or not Hanks' Navy Cross actual printed citation included the mistake I don't know.

Thanks to all of our brave Naval Aviators, past and present - and a very happy Thanksgiving to those who are currently deployed and separated from their families!

If you're ever in Pensacola, I highly recommend visiting the National Museum of Naval Aviation too!

The Questions I Want to Ask

Tonight is (another) Republican Presidential Candidate debate, produced by the Heritage Foundation and the American Enterprise Institute, and will air on CNN. The debate is to focus on national security and foreign policy, but will necessarily branch into other topics such as the "super committee" failure.

For each of the eight candidates who will be in the debate, these are the one, single question I'd like each of them to respond to, listed alphabetically (some may have a follow-up, too):

For Representative Michele Bachmann:

Mrs. Bachmann, since you took your seat with the 110th Congress in 2007, not one single piece of original legislation that you have authored, or were the primary sponsor of, has been brought to the floor of the House for a vote, much less passed. This includes the time you have spent to date with the 112th Congress, under the leadership of your own party. What does this say to your abilities to shepherd legislation through Congress - for foreign, domestic, or national security issues - whether your party is in control or not?

For Mr. Herman Cain:

Mr. Cain, in New Hampshire on November 17th, you were quoted as saying, "Who knows every detail of every country or every situation on the planet? Nobody! We need a leader, not a reader," and, "Forget the facts, forget history, just lead!" Without a strong perspective on world and regional histories, the ability to rapidly digest the written intelligence reports you would receive as President, and contextualizing that intelligence into historical context, exactly how do you propose to lead with a consistent strategy for foreign policy?

TFH 11/22: General David Shoup, USMC

David Monroe Shoup was born in Indiana on December 30th, 1904. He served for 37 years with the United States Marine Corps, finishing his career as the 22nd Commandant.

On November 20, 1943 the United States launched Operation Galvanic - the amphibious assault on Tarawa Atoll in the Gilbert Islands. The largest island of the atoll is Betio. The 2nd Marine Division's 2nd Marine Regiment was the lead assault force. Then-Colonel David Shoup had taken command of the regiment just eleven days before.

After a brief naval bombardment, our Marines stormed ashore. Their first enemy was nature; the tides had been miscalculated, meaning that there was not enough clearance for landing craft to pass over the reefs. Instead of landing on the beach, many had to slog through the surf dragging their equipment under enemy fire. Once ashore, our forces faced the most tenacious and heavily dug-in Japanese defenders yet. Throughout the battle, one man stood taller than the rest, ignored his own wounds, and led his Marines to victory.

From Medal of Honor Citations for World War II:

SHOUP, DAVID MONROE

Rank and organization: Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, commanding officer of all Marine Corps troops on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, and Gilbert Islands, from 20 to 22 November 1943. Entered service at: Indiana. Born: 30 December 1904, Tippecanoe, Ind. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of all Marine Corps troops in action against enemy Japanese forces on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, from 20 to 22 November 1943. Although severely shocked by an exploding enemy shell soon after landing at the pier and suffering from a serious, painful leg wound which had become infected, Col. Shoup fearlessly exposed himself to the terrific and relentless artillery, machinegun, and rifle fire from hostile shore emplacements. Rallying his hesitant troops by his own inspiring heroism, he gallantly led them across the fringing reefs to charge the heavily fortified island and reinforce our hard-pressed, thinly held lines. Upon arrival on shore, he assumed command of all landed troops and, working without rest under constant, withering enemy fire during the next 2 days, conducted smashing attacks against unbelievably strong and fanatically defended Japanese positions despite innumerable obstacles and heavy casualties. By his brilliant leadership daring tactics, and selfless devotion to duty, Col. Shoup was largely responsible for the final decisive defeat of the enemy, and his indomitable fighting spirit reflects great credit upon the U.S. Naval Service .

Our Navy and Marine Corps suffered 1,696 killed in action to seize Tarawa, but our enemy paid a much higher price. Of the approximately 4,850 defenders on the island, only 146 lived to be taken prisoner.

Throughout his career, David Shoup embodied the 2nd Marine Division's motto of "Follow Me" and the 2nd Marines' motto of "Keep Moving" - most definitely during the battle on Tarawa. Both the 2nd Marines and the 2nd Marine Division valiantly serve and defend our Nation to this day.

TFH 11/21: MN1 Cecil H. Martin, USN

On this day in 1968, 28 year-old Mineman First Class Cecil H. Martin commanded a two-boat riverine patrol in Vietnam's Mekong Delta. When the patrol came under intense enemy fire, he placed his boat between the enemy and a stricken craft, led the defense, and saved many to fight again another day. For his heroism and leadership, he received our Nation's second-highest recognition for valor: the Navy Cross.

From Military Times Hall Of Valor:

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Mineman First Class Cecil H. Martin, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism on the night of 21 November 1968 while serving with River Division 531, River Patrol Flotilla FIVE, Task Force 116 (TF-116), during riverine assault operations against enemy aggressor forces in the Mekong Delta region of the Republic of Vietnam. As Senior Boat Captain of a two-boat patrol, Petty Officer Martin was transiting from Rach Soi to Rach Gia, in conjunction with a concentrated patrol program adopted for the Sea Lords interdiction campaign in the lower Delta, when his patrol came under heavy enemy attack on all sides. During the initial hail of fire, his cover boat received two direct rocket hits, wounding all personnel aboard and causing the craft to veer out of control and run aground directly in front of the enemy firing positions. Petty Officer Martin ordered his coxswain to reverse course and reenter the ambush area to rescue the cover boat's crew members. As his unit approached the stricken craft, Petty Officer Martin directed effective counterfire and, placing his boat between the beleaguered craft and the blazing enemy batteries, took command of the precarious rescue effort. While affording exemplary leadership and inspiration to the members of his surprised and battered patrol element, he directed the major fire-suppression efforts of his gunners, personally manning and firing a machine gun at crucial intervals. Additionally, Petty Officer Martin rendered first aid to casualties, extinguished a fire in the beached craft, advised his commanding officer in the Naval Operations Center of the seriousness of the situation, and coordinated the transfer of wounded personnel to his unit. Through his courageous and determined fighting spirit, he succeeded in safely extracting his men, undoubtedly saving numerous lives. His great personal valor in the face of heavy and sustained enemy fire was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

All told, Cecil Martin served for 21 years in our Navy, retiring in 1979 with the rank of Lieutenant. Our Nation is forever grateful for your service and courage, and that of all the gallant sailors who have served in our Navy!