If you knew or served with this Sailor and have additional information or photos to support this Page, please leave a message for the Page Administrator(s) HERE.
Contact Info
Home Town Cresco, Iowa
Date of Passing Feb 18, 1989
Official Badges
Unofficial Badges
Additional Information
Last Known Activity:
Rear Admiral Michael Joseph Malanaphy
Michael J. Malanaphy was born in Cresco, Iowa where he graduated from Cresco High School in 1917. He later graduated from the Naval Academy in 1922. During World War II Admiral Malanophy was Flotilla Commander of LCI's in Taiwan, Guam, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. After many years of service he retired and returned to Cresco where he died in 1989.
Navy Cross Awarded for actions during the Second World War
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain [then Commander] Michael Joseph Malanaphy, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander of LCI(G) Flotilla THREE, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 16 to 19 February 1945. While supporting underwater demolition team operations prior to the assault on the enemy-held island, Captain Malanaphy courageously engaged hostile shore batteries with his lightly protected gunboats and, although his ships suffered numerous hits from the devastating hostile fire, steadfastly covered the demolition tams until the beach reconnaissance was completed. His gallant fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. General Orders: Commander Amphibious Forces Pacific: Serial 02448 (September 23, 1945) Action Date: February 16 - 19, 1945 Service: Navy Rank: Captain
Company: Commander Division: LCI(G) Flotilla 3
Awards included: Navy Cross, Legion of Merit "V", Bronze Star "V", Combat Action Ribbon (retroactive, Iwo Jima) - Navy Commendation - Presidential Unit Citation - Navy Unit Commendation - American Campaign Medal - Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal (6) - World War II Victory Medal - Navy Occupation Service Medal (with Asia clasp).
Other Comments:
Cresco's Five Admirals
Cresco Iowa is very proud of its veterans. It is a community which has provided more than its share of men and women who have served our country in the Armed Services.
On May 30, 1994, the 50th Anniverary of World War II, Cresco was designated a World War II Commemorative Community by the Department of Defense. A special ceremony was conducted by the VFW and the American Legion Club in recognition of this honor. During the ceremony the VFW received a Commemorative Community Certificate of Designation, the distinctive World War II Commemoration Flag, and the official United States of American 50th Anniversary of WW II Commemoration Lapel Pin.
Cresco is proud of the brave men and women who sacrificed so much for our country so that we might live in peace today. A monument to our veterans has been erected in Courthouse Square.
CRESCO'S FIVE ADMIRALS
Vice Admiral FRANK J. LOWRY • Rear Admiral MICHAEL J. MALANAPHY • Rear Admiral ARTHUR T. MOEN • Rear Admiral WALLIS F. PETERSEN • Rear Admiral GEORGE E. PECKHAM
LCI Flotilla 3 (CDR M.J. Malanaphy)
Date
Not Specified
Last Updated: Aug 30, 2010
Comments
During World War II USS LCI(L)-449 / LCI(G)-449 was assigned to the Asiatic-Pacific Theater, LCI Flotilla 3 (CDR M.J. Malanaphy) Group 8 (LCDR Nash) and participated in the following Asiatic-Pacific Campaigns:
Marshall Islands operation Occupation of Kwajalein and Majuro Atolls, 31 January to 8 February 1944.
Iwo Jima operation Assault and occupation of Iwo Jima, 17 to 19 February 1945.
Marianas operation Capture and occupation of Saipan, 20 June to 16 July 1944 Capture and occupation of Guam, 17 to 21 July 1944.
Iwo Jima operation Assault and occupation of Iwo Jima, 17 to 19 February 1945.
Capture and occupation of Tinian 10 July and 24 July to 1 August 1944.
Okinawa Gunto operation Assault and occupation of Okinawa Gunto, February 1945.
