The second Henderson (DD-785) was named for Lofton R. Henderson, who was born in Cleveland 24 May 1903 and graduated from the Naval Academy in 1926. Prior to World War II he served in China, and various Caribbean stations, and on carriers Langley, Ranger and Saratoga. Major Henderson was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism at the historic Battle of Midway, one of the decisive battles of history in which the leadership of the fleet commander and the valor of a handful of pilots changed the course of the war. While his plane was leading 16 Marine Corps planes in a glide bombing attack on carrier Hiryu, the left wing burst into flames as he began his final approach. Henderson continued the attack and perished as his plane dived toward the enemy carrier. Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, was named in his honor.
