Banchero, George Joseph, MoMM2c

The USS Flier (SS-250) was on her second war patrol when she was rocked by a great explosion while traveling through the Balabac Strait. She sank in one minute and all but 13 officers and men were lost with the boat. Motor Machinist's Mate Second Class Banchero was listed as Missing in Action and later declared dead 19 January 1946.

Service number: 6639116

Submarine combat patrols: USS Flier (SS-250) - 1st and 2nd

Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal
Awarded for actions during World War II
Service: Navy
Rank: Motor Machinist's Mate Second Class
Division: U.S.S. Flier (SS-250)
Citation: The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Motor Machinist's Mate Second Class George Joseph Banchero (NSN: 6639116), United States Navy, for heroism in the performance of outstanding services as a member of the crew in the U.S.S. FLIER (SS-250), on the occasion of that Submarine's grounding on 16 January 1944, as a result of extremely hazardous and adverse weather conditions. On seeing that two of his shipmates had been washed overboard, he unhesitatingly removed his clothing and dived over the side into the raging surf and made for one of his shipmates whose arm had been fractured when he was washed overboard. Although soon exhausted himself, he finally reached this man and after great difficulty and superhuman effort, managed to keep his head above water and help him to safety on a sand bar. His prompt action on this occasion undoubtedly resulted in saving the life of one whom might otherwise have perished. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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