On this day in 1968, four American airmen strapped into their McDonnell Douglas F-4D Phantom II fighters at Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base as part of the 435th Tactical Fighter Squadron with the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing for a mission over North Vietnam. Their target: a heavily defended enemy airfield.
Faced with deteriorating weather conditions and intense enemy anti-aircraft fire, the two F-4s descended as low as they dared to attack the target visually. They were successful in destroying several enemy aircraft on the ground. While one of the two American fighters was shot down, the second stayed on station to coordinate the rescue of the downed airmen, both of whom evaded capture and were rescued.
For their tenacity, courage, and determination to strike their target in the face of enemy action, all four of these great Americans received our Nation's second highest honor: the Air Force Cross. All four citations are listed below, courtesy of Military Times' Hall of Valor.
ATTENTION:
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
TFH 2/7: 1LT James A. Gardner, USA
James Gardner was born on this day in 1943. On his 23rd birthday in 1966, this young, two-year Army officer truly showed what it means to lead from the front. For his leadership and supreme courage in the face of the forces of tyranny, he was recognized with our Nation's highest honor.
Sunday, February 05, 2012
TFH 2/5: Pitch, Reverse, Block, Pass, Touchdown, Victory!
Six years ago today, in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XL at Ford Field, Detroit, QB Ben Roethlisberger took the snap and pitched to Willie Parker, running left. Parker hands off to Antwaan Randel El running right. Big Ben throws a huge block on the blitzing corner back to spring Randel El to the outside. He stops, and throws a beautiful, on-target 43-yard pass to Hines Ward. Touchdown, and the Pittsburgh Steelers' fifth Lombardi Trophy was assured!
Saturday, February 04, 2012
TFH 2/4: Lieutenant Colonel Stanley T. Adams, USA
Stanley Taylor Adams, "Stan", was born on May 9, 1922 in De Soto, Kansas. His service to our Nation began during World War II. He was wounded twice during the North African and Italian campaigns, and later served on occupation duty in Japan.
Adams' Korean War service saw him gain an officer's commission for his leadership. Not long before he received his gold bars as a Second Lieutenant, then-Sergeant First Class Stan Adams led 13 men in a courageous counter-attack against an enemy force with at least 10 times the strength in numbers. Charging ahead with fixed bayonets, Adams and his soldiers routed the enemy.
This happened 61 years ago today. For his "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty", he was decorated with our Nation's highest honor.
Friday, February 03, 2012
TFH 2/3: First Lieutenant Willibald C. Bianchi, USA
Continuing my series of every Medal of Honor recipient for World War II, 70 years to the day.
Willibald Bianchi was born on March 12, 1915 in New Ulm, Minnesota. When the United States was plunged into war on December 7, 1941 he was with the Philippine Scouts. On this date in 1942, the forces of liberty struggled against the Japanese invaders on the Bataan peninsula. While the forces of the United States Army and the Philippine Army were generally trying to just hold ground, occasionally they were able to counter-attack. During one such event, Lieutenant Bianchi's fighting spirit, courage, and tenacity were ultimately deemed worthy of our Nation's highest honor.
Willibald Bianchi was born on March 12, 1915 in New Ulm, Minnesota. When the United States was plunged into war on December 7, 1941 he was with the Philippine Scouts. On this date in 1942, the forces of liberty struggled against the Japanese invaders on the Bataan peninsula. While the forces of the United States Army and the Philippine Army were generally trying to just hold ground, occasionally they were able to counter-attack. During one such event, Lieutenant Bianchi's fighting spirit, courage, and tenacity were ultimately deemed worthy of our Nation's highest honor.
Thursday, February 02, 2012
TFH 2/2: Corporal Larry L. Maxam, USMC
When a defensive perimeter is compromised, it's real bad news for the defenders. Unless, that is, a heroic United States Marine is there to carry on the defense alone.
On this day in 1968, 20-year old Larry Maxam of Burbank, California grabbed an abandoned machine gun, ignored multiple wounds, and repelled the assault on the Cam Lo district headquarters in Vietnam. He gave his Nation his life. His Nation gave him its highest honor.
Wednesday, February 01, 2012
TFH 2/1: Master Sergeant Hubert L. Lee, USA
His platoon attacked by a numerically superior enemy force and forced to withdraw. The platoon leader wounded and incapacitated. He assumed command, regrouped his battered unit, and led them forward. When he was wounded the first time, he refused assistance and pressed the attack. Five times the platoon was repulsed by the enemy. Five times they regrouped and attacked again. During the fifth assault, he was wounded again, and crawled forward to continue the attack, motivating his men to follow. Wounded yet again, he still directed his soldiers on a final assault that ultimately regained the key objective the platoon had been holding.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
TFH: January 31, 1970 in Vietnam - Two Heroes
On January 31, 1970 during the Vietnam War, two heroic Americans - one Marine, one Soldier - went above and beyond the call of duty to save the lives of their wounded comrades in separate actions. Both were decorated with the United States' highest honor.
Monday, January 30, 2012
TFH 1/30: First Lieutenant Robert M. McGovern, USA
On this day in 1951 near Kamyangjan-ni, Korea a lone American infantry officer feared his men would buckle under the enemy's withering assault. He mustered all the courage he could, ignored his wounds, and charged forward. His name was Robert Milton McGovern, and for his gallantry and sacrifice, he was decorated with our Nation's highest honor.
Friday, January 27, 2012
TFH 1/27: Sp4c. Donald W. Evans, Jr.
Forty-five years ago today, a combat medic with the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division left a safe position to rescue wounded soldiers of another platoon. He repeatedly exposed himself to hostile fire, ignored his own wounds, and gave his life so that others might survive.
He hailed from Covina, CA and was 23 years old at the time of his heroic acts in the face of the enemy. His name was Donald Ward Evans, Jr. For his courage and sacrifice, he received our Nation's highest honor.
He hailed from Covina, CA and was 23 years old at the time of his heroic acts in the face of the enemy. His name was Donald Ward Evans, Jr. For his courage and sacrifice, he received our Nation's highest honor.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
TFH 1/26: Lieutenant Carlos Thompson, MCSO
Today on Their Finest Hour, I bring you the first of a new category of honoree: recipients of the United States Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor. This decoration, established on May 30, 2001, is for emergency responders who show great courage to the effect of:
On January 26, 2007 - five years to the day - Lieutenant Carlos Thompson of the Mobile (Alabama) County Sheriff's Office attempted to stop a vehicle fitting the description of that belonging to an armed robbery suspect. A high-speed chase ensued. During the chase, the suspect stopped, turned, and opened fire upon Lieutenant Thompson with a SKS assault rifle.
From Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Citations for 2006-2007:
Lieutenant Carlos Thompson
Mobile County Sheriff's Office, Mobile, AL
On Friday, January 26, 2007, Lieutenant Carlos Thompson of the Mobile County (AL) Sheriff's Office attempted to perform a traffic stop on a vehicle matching the description of a suspect vehicle involved in an armed robbery. The driver subsequently fled the scene at a high rate of speed. At an intersection, the driver ran through the stop sign, made a 180-degree turn, and stopped his vehicle, facing Lieutenant Thompson. The suspect began firing an assault rifle, striking Lieutenant Thompson and seriously wounding him in his lower leg and hip, rendering him unable to exit his patrol car. While returning fire, Lieutenant Thompson was struck in the right elbow by gunfire, which forced him to reload his weapon with his weak hand to continue to return fire. As the suspect approached on foot, Lieutenant Thompson, using his weak hand, was able to fatally wound the suspect. Though seriously injured, Lieutenant Thompson was able to direct his fellow deputies arriving on the scene, ensuring that the area was secure and any evidence was protected.
Lieutenant Thompson was a 17-year veteran of the MCSO when this incident occurred. He received his medal at the White House from President Bush on October 22, 2008. He was also decorated with the local Combat Cross and Wounded in Service medals.
Actions above and beyond the call of duty; and exhibiting exceptional courage, extraordinary decisiveness and presence of mind; or an unusual swiftness of action, regardless of his or her personal safety, in an attempt to save or protect human life.Five Medal of Valor-worthy acts of courage are recognized each year.
On January 26, 2007 - five years to the day - Lieutenant Carlos Thompson of the Mobile (Alabama) County Sheriff's Office attempted to stop a vehicle fitting the description of that belonging to an armed robbery suspect. A high-speed chase ensued. During the chase, the suspect stopped, turned, and opened fire upon Lieutenant Thompson with a SKS assault rifle.
From Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Citations for 2006-2007:
Lieutenant Carlos Thompson
Mobile County Sheriff's Office, Mobile, AL
On Friday, January 26, 2007, Lieutenant Carlos Thompson of the Mobile County (AL) Sheriff's Office attempted to perform a traffic stop on a vehicle matching the description of a suspect vehicle involved in an armed robbery. The driver subsequently fled the scene at a high rate of speed. At an intersection, the driver ran through the stop sign, made a 180-degree turn, and stopped his vehicle, facing Lieutenant Thompson. The suspect began firing an assault rifle, striking Lieutenant Thompson and seriously wounding him in his lower leg and hip, rendering him unable to exit his patrol car. While returning fire, Lieutenant Thompson was struck in the right elbow by gunfire, which forced him to reload his weapon with his weak hand to continue to return fire. As the suspect approached on foot, Lieutenant Thompson, using his weak hand, was able to fatally wound the suspect. Though seriously injured, Lieutenant Thompson was able to direct his fellow deputies arriving on the scene, ensuring that the area was secure and any evidence was protected.
Lieutenant Thompson was a 17-year veteran of the MCSO when this incident occurred. He received his medal at the White House from President Bush on October 22, 2008. He was also decorated with the local Combat Cross and Wounded in Service medals.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
TFH 1/24: Lord Baden-Powell - a Reprise
Five years ago to the day I posted my first "Their Finest Hour". The honoree was Robert Baden-Powell, 1st Baron Baden-Powell, known by boys and men as the founder of Scouting.
On January 24, 1908, the first Boy Scout meeting was held. (links to original 2007 TFH post)
And, Life Scout Allan Bourdius (2-Time Philmont Scout Ranch Veteran), is now proud to reiterate:
On my honor, I will do my best to do my duty to God and my Country; to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; and to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.
And
A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.
In closing, I also remember one very important thing out of the Scout Law. In explaining the importance of "A Scout is...brave", this is a quote from the Boy Scout Handbook I've never forgotten, and always try to remind myself of when I face challenges:
A Scout is brave, even when he is afraid.
I hope to never be in true danger, but if I am, that I will act in spite of it.
On January 24, 1908, the first Boy Scout meeting was held. (links to original 2007 TFH post)
And, Life Scout Allan Bourdius (2-Time Philmont Scout Ranch Veteran), is now proud to reiterate:
On my honor, I will do my best to do my duty to God and my Country; to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; and to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.
And
A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.
In closing, I also remember one very important thing out of the Scout Law. In explaining the importance of "A Scout is...brave", this is a quote from the Boy Scout Handbook I've never forgotten, and always try to remind myself of when I face challenges:
A Scout is brave, even when he is afraid.
I hope to never be in true danger, but if I am, that I will act in spite of it.
Friday, January 20, 2012
TFH 1/20: BMC Quincy Hightower Truett, USN
Beginning in late 1968, Operation SEALORDS was begun in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam to combat the communist Viet Cong supply lines and forces in the region. This operation combined several previous riverine warfare units of the United States Navy into one consolidated force, of which Task Force 116 was part.
On this day in 1969, Chief Boatswain's Mate Quincy Hightower Truett commanded a "Patrol Boat, River" (PBR), one of four other craft in a mission along the Kinh Dong Tien Canal. When the entire unit came under intense enemy attack, he sacrificed his own safety to rescue his comrades from a burning PBR. For his courage, leadership, and sacrifice, he 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 pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Chief Boatswain's Mate Quincy Hightower Truett (NSN: 4284530), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism on the night of 20 January 1969 while serving with River Division 551, River Patrol Flotilla FIVE, Task Force 116 (TF-116), engaged in armed conflict against North Vietnamese and Viet Cong communist aggressor forces on the Kinh Dong Tien Canal in the Republic of Vietnam. As Patrol Officer of two River Patrol Boats (PBR's) in company with an Armored Troop Carrier (ATC) and two other PBR's, Chief Petty Officer Truett was aboard the fourth boat in the column when the entire unit came under intense enemy fire. PBR 8137, the boat ahead of Chief Petty Officer Truett, was taken under extremely heavy fire and began to burn, forcing the five occupants aboard into the water. Observing the men struggling to reach the safety of a ditch, Chief Petty Officer Truett ordered his PBR into the area of the burning craft to recover the men in the water. Without regard for his own personal safety, he deliberately exposed himself to the blistering enemy fire, positioning himself on the bow of his boat to provide covering fire and to assist the men from the water. Because of several bright fires from grass huts burning along the canal bank, Chief Petty Officer Truett was completely visible to the enemy during the entire rescue. Mortally wounded after he had helped rescue the last man from the water, Chief Petty Officer Truett, by his outstanding valor, concern for his shipmates' safety, and inspiring devotion to duty, contributed directly to the safe recovery of the crew of PBR 8137. His selfless efforts were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The Knox-class frigate, USS Truett (FF-1095), was named in honor of this brave sailor and served our Navy for twenty years from 1974-1994. Her motto was "Dedication to God and Fatherland", which her namesake doubtlessly displayed in the face of the enemy.
Chief Truett, age 36 at his death, is listed on Panel 34W, Line 46 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in our Nation's capital. Learn more about PBRs and the brave men who crewed them at the website of their veterans' association.
On this day in 1969, Chief Boatswain's Mate Quincy Hightower Truett commanded a "Patrol Boat, River" (PBR), one of four other craft in a mission along the Kinh Dong Tien Canal. When the entire unit came under intense enemy attack, he sacrificed his own safety to rescue his comrades from a burning PBR. For his courage, leadership, and sacrifice, he 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 pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Chief Boatswain's Mate Quincy Hightower Truett (NSN: 4284530), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism on the night of 20 January 1969 while serving with River Division 551, River Patrol Flotilla FIVE, Task Force 116 (TF-116), engaged in armed conflict against North Vietnamese and Viet Cong communist aggressor forces on the Kinh Dong Tien Canal in the Republic of Vietnam. As Patrol Officer of two River Patrol Boats (PBR's) in company with an Armored Troop Carrier (ATC) and two other PBR's, Chief Petty Officer Truett was aboard the fourth boat in the column when the entire unit came under intense enemy fire. PBR 8137, the boat ahead of Chief Petty Officer Truett, was taken under extremely heavy fire and began to burn, forcing the five occupants aboard into the water. Observing the men struggling to reach the safety of a ditch, Chief Petty Officer Truett ordered his PBR into the area of the burning craft to recover the men in the water. Without regard for his own personal safety, he deliberately exposed himself to the blistering enemy fire, positioning himself on the bow of his boat to provide covering fire and to assist the men from the water. Because of several bright fires from grass huts burning along the canal bank, Chief Petty Officer Truett was completely visible to the enemy during the entire rescue. Mortally wounded after he had helped rescue the last man from the water, Chief Petty Officer Truett, by his outstanding valor, concern for his shipmates' safety, and inspiring devotion to duty, contributed directly to the safe recovery of the crew of PBR 8137. His selfless efforts were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The Knox-class frigate, USS Truett (FF-1095), was named in honor of this brave sailor and served our Navy for twenty years from 1974-1994. Her motto was "Dedication to God and Fatherland", which her namesake doubtlessly displayed in the face of the enemy.
Chief Truett, age 36 at his death, is listed on Panel 34W, Line 46 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in our Nation's capital. Learn more about PBRs and the brave men who crewed them at the website of their veterans' association.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
TFH 1/18: Sergeant Gordon Douglas Yntema, USA
On January 16-18, 1968, Sergeant Gordon Douglas Yntema was serving with the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) in Vietnam. While accompanying Vietnamese civilian irregular soldiers, he assumed command when the native commander was seriously wounded. Even when severely wounded, he refused to withdraw and leave his comrades to the enemy. Ultimately, when faced with surrender and torment, he chose to fight to the death. For his actions above and beyond the normal call of duty, he received our Nation's highest honor.
From Medal of Honor Citations for the Vietnam War:
From Medal of Honor Citations for the Vietnam War:
*YNTEMA, GORDON DOUGLAS
Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company
D, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne). Place and date: Near Thong Binh,
Republic of Vietnam, 16-18 January 1968. Entered service at: Detroit, Mich.
Born: 26 June 1945, Bethesda, Md. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity in action at the risk of his life and above and beyond the call of
duty. Sgt. Yntema, U.S. Army, distinguished himself while assigned to Detachment
A-431, Company D. As part of a larger force of civilian irregulars from Camp Cai
Cai, he accompanied 2 platoons to a blocking position east of the village of
Thong Binh, where they became heavily engaged in a small-arms fire fight with
the Viet Cong. Assuming control of the force when the Vietnamese commander was
seriously wounded, he advanced his troops to within 50 meters of the enemy
bunkers. After a fierce 30 minute fire fight, the enemy forced Sgt. Yntema to
withdraw his men to a trench in order to afford them protection and still
perform their assigned blocking mission. Under cover of machinegun fire,
approximately 1 company of Viet Cong maneuvered into a position which pinned
down the friendly platoons from 3 sides. A dwindling ammunition supply, coupled
with a Viet Cong mortar barrage which inflicted heavy losses on the exposed
friendly troops, caused many of the irregulars to withdraw. Seriously wounded
and ordered to withdraw himself, Sgt. Yntema refused to leave his fallen
comrades. Under withering small arms and machinegun fire, he carried the wounded
Vietnamese commander and a mortally wounded American Special Forces advisor to a
small gully 50 meters away in order to shield them from the enemy fire. Sgt.
Yntema then continued to repulse the attacking Viet Cong attempting to overrun
his position until, out of ammunition and surrounded, he was offered the
opportunity to surrender. Refusing, Sgt. Yntema stood his ground, using his
rifle as a club to fight the approximately 15 Viet Cong attempting his capture.
His resistance was so fierce that the Viet Cong were forced to shoot in order to
overcome him. Sgt. Yntema's personal bravery in the face of insurmountable odds
and supreme self-sacrifice were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
military service and reflect the utmost credit upon himself, the 1st Special
Forces, and the U.S. Army.
Sergeant Yntema left behind a wife and three young daughters. He also received the Silver Star Medal for gallantry and two Purple Heart medals during his Vietnam service. He rests in Pilgrim Home Cemetery in Holland, Michigan and appears on Panel 34E, Line 73 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
The 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) still defends our great Nation and the cause of liberty throughout the world from their home base at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
TFH 1/17: Colonel Robert F. Wilke, USAF
In January 1968, the 602nd Tactical Fighter Squadron (Commando) flew their A-1 Skyraider attack planes from Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base on missions against the communist enemy in Vietnam. They were most typically used for close air support and as escorts on search and rescue missions for downed airmen.
On January 16 & 17, 1968, Colonel Robert Frederick Wilke was supporting an ultimately successful mission to rescue two downed fliers. He placed his aircraft at extreme risk to accomplish the mission and was shot down. For his gallantry, he was decorated with 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 pride in presenting the Air Force Cross (Posthumously) to Colonel Robert Frederick Wilke, United States Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as an A-1E Skyraider pilot of the 602d Tactical Fighter Squadron (Commando), Udorn Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, in action on 16 and 17 January 1968. On these dates, Colonel Wilke participated in the successful combat recovery of two downed aircrew members and commanded an effort to recover two other downed pilots. The latter attempted recovery required a penetration of and flight beneath an extremely low overcast condition. With complete disregard for his own safety, Colonel Wilke executed a slow spiral maneuver into the cloud formation, broke out beneath the overcast, and initiated his search in mountainous terrain with extremely limited air space. As he was conducting this low-level search in a heavily defended hostile environment, intense ground fire was being directed toward his aircraft and resulted in his being shot down over hostile territory. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness in the face of hostile forces, Colonel Wilke reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Robert Wilke's remains have never been recovered. He is listed on Panel 34E, Line 65 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. In addition to his Air Force Cross, he was also decorated twice with the Distinguished Flying Cross for his skill in aerial combat.
On January 16 & 17, 1968, Colonel Robert Frederick Wilke was supporting an ultimately successful mission to rescue two downed fliers. He placed his aircraft at extreme risk to accomplish the mission and was shot down. For his gallantry, he was decorated with 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 pride in presenting the Air Force Cross (Posthumously) to Colonel Robert Frederick Wilke, United States Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as an A-1E Skyraider pilot of the 602d Tactical Fighter Squadron (Commando), Udorn Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, in action on 16 and 17 January 1968. On these dates, Colonel Wilke participated in the successful combat recovery of two downed aircrew members and commanded an effort to recover two other downed pilots. The latter attempted recovery required a penetration of and flight beneath an extremely low overcast condition. With complete disregard for his own safety, Colonel Wilke executed a slow spiral maneuver into the cloud formation, broke out beneath the overcast, and initiated his search in mountainous terrain with extremely limited air space. As he was conducting this low-level search in a heavily defended hostile environment, intense ground fire was being directed toward his aircraft and resulted in his being shot down over hostile territory. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness in the face of hostile forces, Colonel Wilke reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Robert Wilke's remains have never been recovered. He is listed on Panel 34E, Line 65 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. In addition to his Air Force Cross, he was also decorated twice with the Distinguished Flying Cross for his skill in aerial combat.
Monday, January 16, 2012
TFH 1/16: Sergeant Jose Calugas
Jose Calugas was born on December 29, 1907 in the Philippines. At age 23 he joined the US Army's Philippine Scouts and was trained as an artilleryman. Seventy years ago today during the defense of the Bataan Peninsula, he took it upon himself to get a knocked-out gun back into action. For his courage and leadership, he was decorated with our Nation's highest honor:
CALUGAS, JOSE
Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Battery
B, 88th Field Artillery, Philippine Scouts. Place and date: At Culis, Bataan
Province, Philippine Islands, 16 January 1942. Entered service at: Fort
Stotsenburg, Philippine Islands. Born: 29 December 1907, Barrio Tagsing, Leon,
%Iloilo, Philippine Islands. G.O. No.: 10, 24 February 1942. Citation: The
action for which the award was made took place near Culis, Bataan Province,
Philippine Islands, on 16 January 1942. A battery gun position was bombed and
shelled by the enemy until 1 gun was put out of commission and all the
cannoneers were killed or wounded. Sgt. Calugas, a mess sergeant of another
battery, voluntarily and without orders ran 1,000 yards across the shell-swept
area to the gun position. There he organized a volunteer squad which placed the
gun back in commission and fired effectively against the enemy, although the
position remained under constant and heavy Japanese artillery fire.
Sergeant Calugas was still fighting for liberty when the US forces in the Philippines surrendered to the Japanese on April 9, 1942. He survived the Bataan Death March and Japanese imprisonment until 1943, when he was released to work as a laborer in a rice mill. His release also meant his return to the fight; Calugas joined a guerrilla unit that helped lead to the liberation of the Philippines in 1945.
In 1945, Jose Calugas received his Medal of Honor from General of the Army George C. Marshall. He remained in the United States Army, received an officer's commission, and became an American citizen in the early 1950s. After leaving the army in 1957, he settled in Tacoma, WA and worked for Boeing. He passed away of natural causes at age 90 in January of 1998.
He rests today in Mountain View Memorial Park in Washington, near his adopted home.
Friday, January 13, 2012
TFH 1/13: Plunged into Disaster, Six Shined
Thirty years ago today, Washington National Airport (today Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport) had been closed in the morning due to heavy snowfall. The airport had reopened around noon. At 1:45 PM, an Air Florida 737 arrived from Miami. That aircraft's attempt to return to Florida that afternoon would end in tragedy.
After a delay of almost two hours, Air Florida Flight 90 - carrying 74 passengers and 5 crew - prepared for departure amid falling temperatures and continuing snowfall. The aircraft had been deiced, but the deicing solution hadn't been mixed properly and wasn't as effective as it should have been. The two pilots, neither particularly experienced with flying in cold weather and snow/ice conditions, inexplicably did not turn the anti-icing systems of their two engines on as part of their takeoff checklist. The pilots also erred by keeping their aircraft very close to the plane taxiing in front of them, thinking incorrectly that the heat from that plane's engine exhaust would help keep theirs free of snow and ice, when the opposite was true.
At 3:59 PM, Flight 90 began its takeoff roll on Runway 01. First Officer Roger Pettit, the "pilot flying" for this leg of the journey, noticed that the 737's performance didn't match what his instruments were telling him. Regardless of his concern, the crew continued with the takeoff - icing conditions on the engines meant that they were producing 16.7% less pressure than they should have, while the instruments reported full power. The icing on the plane's wings denied it a substantial amount of lift. Flight 90 made it airborne - barely - but only reached about 350 feet in altitude before the pilots lost control.
At 4:01 PM, the 737 crashed into the 14th Street Bridge over the Potomac River. The forward section of the plane rapidly sunk, leaving just the tail area separated and afloat.
Four motorists on the bridge were killed by the impact. Of the 79 souls aboard the plane, 73 perished in the crash. Six aboard the plane survived the crash; five of those were ultimately saved. Two of the passengers, along with four people who engaged in the rescue, are the real subject of today's recounting of courage.
Flight Attendant Kelly Duncan, then 22 years old, was the youngest member of the Air Florida crew and the only crew member survivor. She was seated in the rear of the plane, and quickly found herself in the icy Potomac river with the other five survivors. Putting her passengers first, she assisted the other survivors as best she could as they clung to the fractured tail of the aircraft, including giving the only available life jacket to one of the injured passengers. She was recognized by the NTSB for her selfless act.
Roger Olian, a sheet metal working foreman at a Washington area hospital, was driving home and was atop the 14th Street Bridge when the plane struck. He heard a man yelling that a plane was in the water. Olian exited his truck, and courageously dove into the river in an attempt to assist the survivors. With ice clinging to his body, he came ashore looking for anything that could be used to assist the victims. Grabbing what little was available to him - some rope, battery jumper cables - he ignored the voices of other bystanders and reentered the freezing waters to try and save others. For his courage at extreme risk to himself, he was awarded the Gold Lifesaving Medal by the United States Coast Guard.
Lenny Skutnik, a US government office assistant in his late 20s, observed a passenger - Priscilla Tirado - struggling in the water as a helicopter (see below) tried to drop a life line to her. Without hesitation, he stripped off his coat and boots and swam 30 feet out into the river to assist her. He was successful in towing Ms. Tirado to shore, saving her life. Thirteen days after the disaster, he was recognized by President Reagan during the 1982 State of the Union Address. Like Roger Olian, Skutnik was also decorated by the Coast Guard with the Gold Lifesaving Medal.
Donald W. Usher and Melvin E. Windsor crewed the United States Park Police's helicopter Eagle 1. Usher (the pilot) and Windsor (a paramedic) were credited with saving four of the survivors by dropping lines to them from the air and assisting them to shore. At one point during the rescue, they were so low to the water that the landing skids went beneath the surface of the Potomac. Windsor also exited the helicopter onto the barely floating wreckage of the tail section to assist the survivors. They were both decorated with the US Department of the Interior's Valor Award and Silver Lifesaving Medals by the Coast Guard.
Arland Dean Williams, Jr., age 46, was a passenger. He didn't know any of his fellow survivors personally, but he unhesitatingly and with complete selflessness and courage put the lives of the others before his own. A life vest was dropped from Usher and Windsor's helicopter; he gave it to another. Then a flotation ball was dropped; that was given to another. He retrieved many of the lines from the helicopter - and passed them to others. He was the last remaining victim in the water when the tail section finally sank. Exhausted and succumbing to hypothermia, he was unable to save himself, was dragged under, and drowned. Time Magazine on January 25, 1982 - before his identity was known - wrote of his courage:
Also in 1983, the District of Columbia renamed the 14th Street Bridge to the "Arland D. Williams Jr. Memorial Bridge." On this day, as well as all others, may those who use the bridge - and the rest of us too - remember the fantastic courage shown that day thirty years ago.
And to the families of all those lost aboard Flight 90, you will be in our prayers on this grim anniversary.
The Washington Post has retrospective coverage, as well as a reprise of the front page from the following day in 1982.
After a delay of almost two hours, Air Florida Flight 90 - carrying 74 passengers and 5 crew - prepared for departure amid falling temperatures and continuing snowfall. The aircraft had been deiced, but the deicing solution hadn't been mixed properly and wasn't as effective as it should have been. The two pilots, neither particularly experienced with flying in cold weather and snow/ice conditions, inexplicably did not turn the anti-icing systems of their two engines on as part of their takeoff checklist. The pilots also erred by keeping their aircraft very close to the plane taxiing in front of them, thinking incorrectly that the heat from that plane's engine exhaust would help keep theirs free of snow and ice, when the opposite was true.
At 3:59 PM, Flight 90 began its takeoff roll on Runway 01. First Officer Roger Pettit, the "pilot flying" for this leg of the journey, noticed that the 737's performance didn't match what his instruments were telling him. Regardless of his concern, the crew continued with the takeoff - icing conditions on the engines meant that they were producing 16.7% less pressure than they should have, while the instruments reported full power. The icing on the plane's wings denied it a substantial amount of lift. Flight 90 made it airborne - barely - but only reached about 350 feet in altitude before the pilots lost control.
At 4:01 PM, the 737 crashed into the 14th Street Bridge over the Potomac River. The forward section of the plane rapidly sunk, leaving just the tail area separated and afloat.
Four motorists on the bridge were killed by the impact. Of the 79 souls aboard the plane, 73 perished in the crash. Six aboard the plane survived the crash; five of those were ultimately saved. Two of the passengers, along with four people who engaged in the rescue, are the real subject of today's recounting of courage.
Flight Attendant Kelly Duncan, then 22 years old, was the youngest member of the Air Florida crew and the only crew member survivor. She was seated in the rear of the plane, and quickly found herself in the icy Potomac river with the other five survivors. Putting her passengers first, she assisted the other survivors as best she could as they clung to the fractured tail of the aircraft, including giving the only available life jacket to one of the injured passengers. She was recognized by the NTSB for her selfless act.
Roger Olian, a sheet metal working foreman at a Washington area hospital, was driving home and was atop the 14th Street Bridge when the plane struck. He heard a man yelling that a plane was in the water. Olian exited his truck, and courageously dove into the river in an attempt to assist the survivors. With ice clinging to his body, he came ashore looking for anything that could be used to assist the victims. Grabbing what little was available to him - some rope, battery jumper cables - he ignored the voices of other bystanders and reentered the freezing waters to try and save others. For his courage at extreme risk to himself, he was awarded the Gold Lifesaving Medal by the United States Coast Guard.
Lenny Skutnik, a US government office assistant in his late 20s, observed a passenger - Priscilla Tirado - struggling in the water as a helicopter (see below) tried to drop a life line to her. Without hesitation, he stripped off his coat and boots and swam 30 feet out into the river to assist her. He was successful in towing Ms. Tirado to shore, saving her life. Thirteen days after the disaster, he was recognized by President Reagan during the 1982 State of the Union Address. Like Roger Olian, Skutnik was also decorated by the Coast Guard with the Gold Lifesaving Medal.
Donald W. Usher and Melvin E. Windsor crewed the United States Park Police's helicopter Eagle 1. Usher (the pilot) and Windsor (a paramedic) were credited with saving four of the survivors by dropping lines to them from the air and assisting them to shore. At one point during the rescue, they were so low to the water that the landing skids went beneath the surface of the Potomac. Windsor also exited the helicopter onto the barely floating wreckage of the tail section to assist the survivors. They were both decorated with the US Department of the Interior's Valor Award and Silver Lifesaving Medals by the Coast Guard.
Arland Dean Williams, Jr., age 46, was a passenger. He didn't know any of his fellow survivors personally, but he unhesitatingly and with complete selflessness and courage put the lives of the others before his own. A life vest was dropped from Usher and Windsor's helicopter; he gave it to another. Then a flotation ball was dropped; that was given to another. He retrieved many of the lines from the helicopter - and passed them to others. He was the last remaining victim in the water when the tail section finally sank. Exhausted and succumbing to hypothermia, he was unable to save himself, was dragged under, and drowned. Time Magazine on January 25, 1982 - before his identity was known - wrote of his courage:
So the man in the water had his own natural powers. He could not make ice storms, or freeze the water until it froze the blood. But he could hand life over to a stranger, and that is a power of nature too. The man in the water pitted himself against an implacable, impersonal enemy; he fought it with charity; and he held it to a standoff. He was the best we can do.It took some time to conclusively identify Williams as "the man in the water". On June 6, 1983 in an Oval Office ceremony, President Ronald Reagan and Secretary of Transportation Elizabeth Dole presented his parents, sister, and children with his Gold Lifesaving Medal from the Coast Guard.
Also in 1983, the District of Columbia renamed the 14th Street Bridge to the "Arland D. Williams Jr. Memorial Bridge." On this day, as well as all others, may those who use the bridge - and the rest of us too - remember the fantastic courage shown that day thirty years ago.
And to the families of all those lost aboard Flight 90, you will be in our prayers on this grim anniversary.
The Washington Post has retrospective coverage, as well as a reprise of the front page from the following day in 1982.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
TFH 1/12 Extra: Corporal Ronald E. Rosser, USA
Ronald Rosser first enlisted in the United States Army at age 17 in 1946. His three-year enlistment saw him returned to civilian life in 1949. After one of his brothers was killed in action during the early days of the Korean War, he reenlisted in hopes of avenging his dead sibling.
60 years ago today - and 10 years after today's other honoree, Lieutenant Alexander Nininger - then Corporal Rosser single-handedly changed the course of a battle. For his gallantry, he received our Nation's highest honor.
60 years ago today - and 10 years after today's other honoree, Lieutenant Alexander Nininger - then Corporal Rosser single-handedly changed the course of a battle. For his gallantry, he received our Nation's highest honor.
TFH 1/12: Second Lieutenant Alexander R. Nininger, USA
70 years ago today, West Point graduate Alexander R. Nininger, Jr. was fighting the Japanese in the Philippines on the Bataan Peninsula with the 57th Infantry Regiment of the Philippine Scouts. As history tells, the defense was ultimately futile. Regardless, our brave soldiers did their duty, and many went above and beyond that call.
From Medal of Honor Citations for World War II:
From Medal of Honor Citations for World War II:
*NININGER, ALEXANDER R., JR.
Rank and organization: Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army,
57th Infantry, Philippine Scouts. Place and date: Near Abucay, Bataan,
Philippine Islands, 12 January 1942. Entered service at: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Birth: Gainesville, Ga. G.O. No.: 9, 5 February 1942. Citation: For conspicuous
gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action with the
enemy near Abucay, Bataan, Philippine Islands, on 12 January 1942. This officer,
though assigned to another company not then engaged in combat, voluntarily
attached himself to Company K, same regiment, while that unit was being attacked
by enemy force superior in firepower. Enemy snipers in trees and foxholes had
stopped a counterattack to regain part of position. In hand-to-hand fighting
which followed, 2d Lt. Nininger repeatedly forced his way to and into the
hostile position. Though exposed to heavy enemy fire, he continued to attack
with rifle and handgrenades and succeeded in destroying several enemy groups in
foxholes and enemy snipers. Although wounded 3 times, he continued his attacks
until he was killed after pushing alone far within the enemy position. When his
body was found after recapture of the position, 1 enemy officer and 2 enemy
soldiers lay dead around him.
Lieutenant Nininger lies at rest near where he fell in the Philippines.
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