Criteria The Navy Cross may be awarded to any person who, while serving with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguishes himself in action by extraordinary heroism not justifying an award of the Medal of Honor.... The Navy Cross may be awarded to any person who, while serving with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguishes himself in action by extraordinary heroism not justifying an award of the Medal of Honor. MoreHide
Comments Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross... Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal.
Navy Cross (second award)
Awarded for actions during the World War II
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] Edward White Overton, Jr., 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 FIFTEEN (VF-15), attached to the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. Undaunted by intense anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Commander Overton carried out an attack against major hostile fleet units, scoring a direct bomb hit on a Japanese battleship and contributing to the success of the mission. By his skill as an airman and devotion to duty throughout, Lieutenant Commander Overton upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander 2d Carrier Task Force Pacific: Serial 0429 (December 16, 1944) & Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Action Date: October 25, 1944
Service: Navy
Rank: Lieutenant Commander
Company: Fighting Squadron 15 (VF-15)
Division: U.S.S. Essex (CV-9) MoreHide
Criteria
The World War II Victory Medal commemorates military service during the Second World War.
Description Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross... Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal. MoreHide
Chain of Command
OVERTON, EDWARD WHITE, JR., Squadron VF-15.
During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal.
Essex was the lead ship of her class of aircraft carriers. After her shakedown cruise, she joined the Pacific Fleet in May 1943. She launched her aircraft against Japanese positions on Marcus Island on 31 Aug 1943, Wake Island on 5-6 Oct 1943, Tarawa on 18-23 Nov 1943, Kwajalein on 4 Dec 1943, and various targets in the Marshall Islands between 29 Jan and 2 Feb 1944. On 17-18 Feb 1944, she participated in the great carrier raid against Truk, then she proceeded to the Marianas Islands to raid Japanese positions there a few days later. After spending some time in San Francisco for overhaul, she struck Marcus Island on 19-20 May 1944 and Wake Island on 23 May. Between 12 Jun and 10 Aug, she served in the Mariana Islands region in support of the landing and occupation operations. Between 6 and 10 Sep, she launched sorties against Palau Islands, Mindanao of the Philippine Islands, and Japanese shipping in the region. Between 10 and 14 Oct 1944, she struck Okinawa and Formosa in support of the American invasion of the Philippine Islands; she remained in the area to supply direct support for the Philippines campaign. On 25 Nov 1944, she received battle damage for the first time when a special attack D4Y dive bomber piloted by Lt. Yoshinori Yamaguchi crashed into the port edge of her flight deck, killing 15 and wounding 44. Although the damage caused by the kamikaze attack was serious, she was able to make temporary repairs and remain on the front lines. In Dec 1944, Essex's aircraft supported the Lingayen Gulf landing operations both directly at Luzon and indirectly by striking Formosa, Sakishima, and Okinawa, which were among the islands she would continue to attack until Feb 1945.During the final few months of the war she launched air strikes against Iwo Jima, Okinawa, and the Japanese home islands. She was decommissioned from WW2 service on 9 Jan 1947.
Criteria The Navy Cross may be awarded to any person who, while serving with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguishes himself in action by extraordinary heroism not justifying an award of the Medal of Honor.... The Navy Cross may be awarded to any person who, while serving with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguishes himself in action by extraordinary heroism not justifying an award of the Medal of Honor. MoreHide
Comments Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross... Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal.
Navy Cross (first award)
Awarded for actions during the World War II
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] Edward White Overton, Jr., United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and Division Leader in Fighting Squadron FIFTEEN (VF-15, attached to the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 19 June 1944. Engaging the outnumbering enemy aerial groups closing our surface forces, Lieutenant Commander Overton pressed home his attacks and, skillfully maneuvering his plane in the face of intense enemy opposition, shot down two enemy fighters, an enemy dive bomber, probably destroyed two more enemy fighters and assisted in destroying, damaging or dispersing the remainder although his fuel tank was on fire and his plane badly damaged. Promptly assuming command when the squadron commander failed to return, he rendezvoused the remainder of our planes and then elected to stay in the area until darkness in order to search for missing pilots despite the proximity of an enemy airfield and the constant threat from hostile anti-aircraft fire. By his superb airmanship, fighting spirit and devotion to duty, he contributed essentially to the defense of our forces in the area and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander Fast Carrier Task Force: Serial 0280 (August 3, 1944) & Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Action Date: June 19, 1944
Service: Navy
Rank: Lieutenant Commander
Company: Fighting Squadron 15 (VF-15)
Division: U.S.S. Essex (CV-9) MoreHide
Criteria The Distinguished Flying Cross may be awarded to military members who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism or outstanding achievement while participa... The Distinguished Flying Cross may be awarded to military members who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism or outstanding achievement while participating in aerial flight. MoreHide
Comments Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross... Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal.
Distinguished Flying Cross (first award)
Awarded for actions during the World War II
(Citation Needed) - SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant Edward White Overton, Jr., United States Navy, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as a Fighter Pilot in Fighting Squadron FIFTEEN (VF-15), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific Ocean Area during World War II.
Action Date: World War II
Service: Navy
Rank: Lieutenant
Battalion: Fighting Squadron 15 (VF-15)
Division: U.S.S. Essex (CV-9) MoreHide
Criteria The Distinguished Flying Cross may be awarded to military members who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism or outstanding achievement while participa... The Distinguished Flying Cross may be awarded to military members who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism or outstanding achievement while participating in aerial flight. MoreHide
Comments Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross... Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal.
Distinguished Flying Cross (second award)
Awarded for actions during the World War II
(Citation Needed) - SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant Edward White Overton, Jr., United States Navy, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as a Fighter Pilot in Fighting Squadron FIFTEEN (VF-15), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific Ocean Area during World War II.
Action Date: World War II
Service: Navy
Rank: Lieutenant
Battalion: Fighting Squadron 15 (VF-15)
Division: U.S.S. Essex (CV-9) MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross... Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross... Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross... Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross... Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross... Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross... Navy Pilot Edward White Overton Jr.; Highly Decorated WWII Flier and CIA Officer. During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also receiv... During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal.
MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also receiv... During World War II, he was stationed in the Pacific theater as a Navy pilot and received two awards of the Navy Cross for extraordinary bravery while facing intense anti-aircraft fire. He also received two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross and eight awards of the Air Medal.
MoreHide
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Criteria The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following condi... The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Description USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again... USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again Manila. MoreHide
Criteria The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following condi... The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Description USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again... USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again Manila. MoreHide
Criteria The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following condi... The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Description USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again... USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again Manila. MoreHide
Criteria The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following condi... The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Description USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again... USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again Manila. MoreHide
Criteria The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following condi... The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Description USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again... USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again Manila. MoreHide
Criteria The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following condi... The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Description USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again... USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again Manila. MoreHide
Criteria The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following condi... The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Description USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again... USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again Manila. MoreHide
Criteria The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following condi... The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Description USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again... USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles:
Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again Manila. MoreHide
Description The Battle of the Philippine Sea (June 19–20, 1944) was a major naval battle of World War II that eliminated the Imperial Japanese Navy's ability to conduct large-scale carrier actions. It took place The Battle of the Philippine Sea (June 19–20, 1944) was a major naval battle of World War II that eliminated the Imperial Japanese Navy's ability to conduct large-scale carrier actions. It took place during the United States' amphibious invasion of the Mariana Islands during the Pacific War. The battle was the last of five major "carrier-versus-carrier" engagements between American and Japanese naval forces, and pitted elements of the United States Navy's Fifth Fleet against ships and aircraft of the Imperial Japanese Navy's Mobile Fleet and nearby island garrisons.
The aerial part of the battle was nicknamed the Great Marianas Turkey Shoot by American aviators for the severely disproportional loss ratio inflicted upon Japanese aircraft by American pilots and anti-aircraft gunners. During a debriefing after the first two air battles a pilot from USS Lexington remarked "Why, hell, it was just like an old-time turkey shoot down home!" The outcome is generally attributed to American improvements in pilot and crew training and tactics, technology (including the top-secret anti-aircraft proximity fuze), and ship and aircraft design. Although at the time the battle appeared to be a missed opportunity to destroy the Japanese fleet, the Imperial Japanese Navy had lost the bulk of its carrier air strength and would never recover. During the course of the battle, American submarines torpedoed and sank two of the largest Japanese fleet carriers taking part in the battle.
This was the largest carrier-to-carrier battle in history.... More
Memories USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles: Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
Description The Battle of Saipan was a battle of the Pacific campaign of World War II, fought on the island of Saipan in the Mariana Islands from 15 June–9 July 1944. The Allied invasion fleet embarking the expedThe Battle of Saipan was a battle of the Pacific campaign of World War II, fought on the island of Saipan in the Mariana Islands from 15 June–9 July 1944. The Allied invasion fleet embarking the expeditionary forces left Pearl Harbor on 5 June 1944, the day before Operation Overlord in Europe was launched. The U.S. 2nd Marine Division, 4th Marine Division, and 27th Infantry Division, commanded by Lieutenant General Holland Smith, defeated the 43rd Division of the Imperial Japanese Army, commanded by Lieutenant General Yoshitsugu Saito.
Bombardment of Saipan began on 13 June 1944. Fifteen battleships were involved, and 165,000 shells were fired. Seven modern fast battleships delivered twenty-four hundred 16 in (410 mm) shells, but to avoid potential minefields, fire was from a distance of 10,000 yd (9,100 m) or more, and crews were inexperienced in shore bombardment. The following day the eight older battleships and 11 cruisers under Admiral Jesse B. Oldendorf replaced the fast battleships but were lacking in time and ammunition.
The landings[4] began at 07:00 on 15 June 1944. More than 300 LVTs landed 8,000 Marines on the west coast of Saipan by about 09:00. Eleven fire support ships covered the Marine landings. The naval force consisted of the battleships Tennessee and California. The cruisers were Birmingham and Indianapolis. The destroyers were Norman Scott, Monssen, Colahan, Halsey Powell, Bailey, Robinson and Albert W. Grant. Careful Japanese artillery preparation — placing flags in the lagoon to indicate the range — allowed them to destroy about 20 amphibious tanks, and the Japanese strategically placed barbed wire, artillery, machine gun emplacements, and trenches to maximize the American casualties. However, by nightfall the 2nd and 4th Marine Divisions had a beachhead about 6 mi (10 km) wide and 0.5 mi (1 km) deep. The Japanese counter-attacked at night but were repulsed with heavy losses. On 16 June, units of the U.S. Army's 27th Infantry Division landed and advanced on the airfield at Ås Lito (which is now the location of Saipan International Airport). Again the Japanese counter-attacked at night. On 18 June, Saito abandoned the airfield.
The invasion surprised the Japanese high command, which had been expecting an attack further south. Admiral Soemu Toyoda, commander-in-chief of the Japanese Navy, saw an opportunity to use the A-Go force to attack the U.S. Navy forces around Saipan. On 15 June, he gave the order to attack. But the resulting battle of the Philippine Sea was a disaster for the Imperial Japanese Navy, which lost three aircraft carriers and hundreds of planes. The garrisons of the Marianas would have no hope of resupply or reinforcement.
Without resupply, the battle on Saipan was hopeless for the defenders, but the Japanese were determined to fight to the last man. Saito organized his troops into a line anchored on Mount Tapotchau in the defensible mountainous terrain of central Saipan. The nicknames given by the Americans to the features of the battle — "Hell's Pocket", "Purple Heart Ridge" and "Death Valley" — indicate the severity of the fighting. The Japanese used the many caves in the volcanic landscape to delay the attackers, by hiding during the day and making sorties at night. The Americans gradually developed tactics for clearing the caves by using flamethrower teams supported by artillery and machine guns.
The operation was marred by inter-service controversy when Marine General Holland Smith, unsatisfied with the performance of the 27th Division, relieved its commander, Army Major General Ralph C. Smith. However, General Holland Smith had not inspected the terrain over which the 27th was to advance. Essentially, it was a valley surrounded by hills and cliffs under Japanese control. The 27th took heavy casualties and eventually, under a plan developed by General Ralph Smith and implemented after his relief, had one battalion hold the area while two other battalions successfully flanked the Japanese.
By 7 July, the Japanese had nowhere to retreat. Saito made plans for a final suicidal banzai charge. On the fate of the remaining civilians on the island, Saito said, "There is no longer any distinction between civilians and troops. It would be better for them to join in the attack with bamboo spears than be captured." At dawn, with a group of 12 men carrying a great red flag in the lead, the remaining able-bodied troops — about 3,000 men — charged forward in the final attack. Amazingly, behind them came the wounded, with bandaged heads, crutches, and barely armed. The Japanese surged over the American front lines, engaging both army and Marine units. The 1st and 2nd Battalions of the 105th Infantry Regiment were almost destroyed, losing 650 killed and wounded. However, the fierce resistance of these two battalions, as well as that of Headquarters Company, 105th Infantry, and supply elements of 3rd Battalion, 10th Marine Artillery Regiment resulted in over 4,300 Japanese killed. For their actions during the 15-hour Japanese attack, three men of the 105th Infantry were awarded the Medal of Honor — all posthumously. Numerous others fought the Japanese until they were overwhelmed by the largest Japanese Banzai attack in the Pacific War.
By 16:15 on 9 July, Admiral Turner announced that Saipan was officially secured. Saito — along with commanders Hirakushi and Igeta — committed suicide in a cave. Also committing suicide at the end of the battle was Vice-Admiral Chuichi Nagumo — the naval commander who led the Japanese carriers at Pearl Harbor and Midway — who had been assigned to Saipan to direct the Japanese naval air forces based there.
In the end, almost the entire garrison of troops on the island — at least 30,000 — died. For the Americans, the victory was the most costly to date in the Pacific War. 2,949 Americans were killed and 10,464 wounded, out of 71,000 who landed. Hollywood actor Lee Marvin was among the many American wounded. He was serving with "I" Company, 24th Marine Regiment, when he was shot in the buttocks by Japanese machine gun fire during the assault on Mount Tapochau. He was awarded the Purple Heart and was given a medical discharge with the rank of Private First Class in 1945.... More
Memories USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles: Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles: Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, Iwo Jima, Philippine Sea, Marianas, Palau, Visayans, Manila, Okinawa, Formosa, Leyth Gulf, and again Manila.... More
Description The Mariana and Palau Islands campaign, also known as Operation Forager, was an offensive launched by United States forces against Imperial Japanese forces in the Mariana Islands and Palau in the PaciThe Mariana and Palau Islands campaign, also known as Operation Forager, was an offensive launched by United States forces against Imperial Japanese forces in the Mariana Islands and Palau in the Pacific Ocean between June and November, 1944 during the Pacific War. The United States offensive, under the overall command of Chester Nimitz, followed the Gilbert and Marshall Islands campaign and was intended to neutralize Japanese bases in the central Pacific, support the Allied drive to retake the Philippines, and provide bases for a strategic bombing campaign against Japan.
Beginning the offensive, United States Marine Corps and United States Army forces, with support from the United States Navy, executed landings on Saipan in June, 1944. In response, the Imperial Japanese Navy's combined fleet sortied to attack the U.S. Navy fleet supporting the landings. In the resulting aircraft carrier Battle of the Philippine Sea (the so-called “Great Marianas Turkey Shoot”) on 19–20 June, the Japanese naval forces were decisively defeated with heavy and irreplaceable losses to their carrier-borne and land-based aircraft.
Thereafter, U.S. forces executed landings on Guam and Tinian in July, 1944. After heavy fighting, Saipan was secured in July and Guam and Tinian in August, 1944. The U.S. then constructed airfields on Saipan and Tinian where B-29s were based to conduct strategic bombing missions against the Japanese mainland until the end of World War II, including the nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
In the meantime, in order to secure the flank for U.S. forces preparing to attack Japanese forces in the Philippines, in September, 1944, U.S. Marine and Army forces landed on the islands of Peleliu and Angaur in Palau. After heavy and intense combat on Peleliu, the island was finally secured by U.S. forces in November, 1944.
Following their landings in the Mariana and Palau Islands, Allied forces continued their ultimately successful campaign against Japan by landing in the Philippines in October, 1944 and the Volcano and Ryukyu Islands beginning in January, 1945.... More
Memories Awarded the Navy Cross: The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy CroAwarded the Navy Cross: The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward White Overton, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron FIFTEEN (VF-15, embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of the Marianas Islands on 19 June 1944. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.... More
Description The Battle of Leyte Gulf, also called the Battles for Leyte Gulf, and formerly known as the Second Battle of the Philippine Sea, is generally considered to be the largest naval battle of World War II The Battle of Leyte Gulf, also called the Battles for Leyte Gulf, and formerly known as the Second Battle of the Philippine Sea, is generally considered to be the largest naval battle of World War II and, by some criteria, possibly the largest naval battle in history.
It was fought in waters near the Philippine islands of Leyte, Samar and Luzon from 23–26 October 1944, between combined US and Australian forces and the Imperial Japanese Navy. On 20 October, United States troops invaded the island of Leyte as part of a strategy aimed at isolating Japan from the countries it had occupied in Southeast Asia, and in particular depriving its forces and industry of vital oil supplies. The Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) mobilized nearly all of its remaining major naval vessels in an attempt to defeat the Allied invasion, but was repulsed by the US Navy's 3rd and 7th Fleets. The IJN failed to achieve its objective, suffered very heavy losses, and never afterwards sailed to battle in comparable force. The majority of its surviving heavy ships, deprived of fuel, remained in their bases for the rest of the Pacific War.
The Battle of Leyte Gulf consisted of four separate engagements between the opposing forces: the Battle of the Sibuyan Sea, the Battle of Surigao Strait, the Battle of Cape Engaño and the Battle off Samar, as well as other actions.
It was the first battle in which Japanese aircraft carried out organized kamikaze attacks. By the time of the battle, Japan had fewer aircraft than the Allied forces had sea vessels, demonstrating the difference in power of the two sides at this point of the war. ... More
Memories Awarded the Navy Cross during the Battle of Leyte Gulf. By his daring airmanship, exceptional couragAwarded the Navy Cross during the Battle of Leyte Gulf. By his daring airmanship, exceptional courage and steadfast devotion to duty through a perilous assignment, Lieutenant Overton contributed materially to the sinking of this valuable enemy fighting unit and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.... More
Description The Formosa Air Battle took place between October 10 and 20, 1944, off the eastern coasts of the Ryukyu Islands, Formosa, and Luzon. It was fought by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service and the appThe Formosa Air Battle took place between October 10 and 20, 1944, off the eastern coasts of the Ryukyu Islands, Formosa, and Luzon. It was fought by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service and the approaching Task Force 38 of the United States Third Fleet and was one of a series of air raids on Japan during the Pacific War. The attacks served to prevent Japanese aircraft from participating in the Battle of Leyte Gulf later that month.
The battle was one-sided, as the U.S. practically dominated the air war due to the superior training and weaponry that it possessed at that point. Japanese air power in the region was battle exhausted, giving the Americans air superiority and weakening Japan's ability to defend the Okinawa Islands in the upcoming Okinawa Campaign. However, in an effort to boost morale and to cover up th... More
Memories USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
April 29-November 18, 1944. 14 Battles: Marcus, Wake, Saipan, Pagan, USS Essex, Air Group 15, VF-15.
Criteria The American Campaign Medal was awarded for For thirty days service outside the Continental United States but within the American Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946; or,... The American Campaign Medal was awarded for For thirty days service outside the Continental United States but within the American Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946; or, an aggregate service of one year within the Continental United States during the same period under the following circumstances: On permanent assignment outside the continental limits of the United States; or, On permanent assignment as a member of a crew of a vessel sailing ocean waters for a period of 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service outside the continental limits of the United States in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non consecutive days; or, For service in active combat against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat; or, For service within the continental limits of the United States for an aggregate period of one year. MoreHide
Description The plan of the Pacific subseries was determined by the geography, strategy, and the military organization of a theater largely oceanic. Two independent, coordinate commands, one in the Southwest PaciThe plan of the Pacific subseries was determined by the geography, strategy, and the military organization of a theater largely oceanic. Two independent, coordinate commands, one in the Southwest Pacific under General of the Army Douglas MacArthur and the other in the Central, South, and North Pacific (Pacific Ocean Areas) under Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, were created early in the war. Except in the South and Southwest Pacific, each conducted its own operations with its own ground, air, and naval forces in widely separated areas. These operations required at first only a relatively small number of troops whose efforts often yielded strategic gains which cannot be measured by the size of the forces involved. Indeed, the nature of the objectivesùsmall islands, coral atolls, and jungle-bound harbors and airstrips, made the employment of large ground forces impossible and highlighted the importance of air and naval operations. Thus, until 1945, the war in the Pacific progressed by a double series of amphibious operations each of which fitted into a strategic pattern developed in Washington.... More
Criteria The American Defense Service Medal was awarded for service in the Armed Forces between September 8, 1939, and December 7, 1941. Army members had to serve 12 months to be eligible, but Navy and Marine ... The American Defense Service Medal was awarded for service in the Armed Forces between September 8, 1939, and December 7, 1941. Army members had to serve 12 months to be eligible, but Navy and Marine Corps members were eligible based on any length of service. MoreHide
Mr. Overton spent the 1950s and early 1960s with the CIA.