This Military Service Page was created/owned by
Shaun Thomas (Underdog), OSC
to remember
Hatfield, Hiram Delbert, LTJG.
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Casualty Info
Home Town McClain, OK
Last Address Lemoore, CA
Casualty Date Aug 24, 1944
Cause KIA-Body Not Recovered
Reason Other Explosive Device
Location Pacific Ocean
Conflict World War II
Location of Interment Manila American Cemetery and Memorial - Manila, Philippines
Wall/Plot Coordinates (cenotaph)
Official Badges
Unofficial Badges
Additional Information
Last Known Activity:
The USS Harder (SS-257) began her 6th War Patrol on August 5th, 1944 and formed a "wolfpack" with four other submarines. She sank two merchant ships before her final attack on August 24th. While the Hake escaped sinking, a depth charge attack sunk the Harder with all hands. Lieutenant Junior Grade Hatfield was listed as Missing in Action and later declared dead 2 October 1945.
Comments/Citation:
Service numbers: Enlisted - 3754535 Officer - 342401
Silver Star
Awarded for Actions During World War II
Service: Navy
Division: U.S.S. Harder (SS-257)
General Orders: Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Citation: (Citation Needed) - SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant, Junior Grade Hiram Delbert Hatfield, United States Navy, was awarded the Silver Star (Posthumously) for gallantry in action while serving as Sounder Operator aboard the United States Submarine U.S.S. HARDER (SS-257) during war patrols in enemy-controlled waters during World War II. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
