This Military Service Page was created/owned by
Michael Currant (mikey), PR2
to remember
Elder, James Edward, Y2c.
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Casualty Info
Home Town Ottawa, KS
Last Address Ottawa, KS
Casualty Date Aug 08, 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 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. Yeoman Second Class Elder was listed as Missing in Action and later declared dead 19 January 1946.
Comments/Citation:
Service number: 3425765
Navy Unit Commendation
For outstanding heroism in action against enemy Japanese shipping and combatant units during her Fourth War Patrol in the Celebes and Sulu Seas from April 30 to June 21, 1944. Operating in bold defiance of persistent and severe hostile counter measures, the USS Puffer daringly struck at heavily escorted Japanese convoys. Going in despite relentless opposition, she penetrated the enemy's formidable screens to press home her attacks, launching her torpedoes with devastating speed and precision to sink numerous valuable units of the Japanese Fleet. Skillfully handled by her valiant officers and men, she withstood merciless depth charges and repeatedly returned to deliver crushing blows to the enemy's vital life lines of supply. Her gallant fighting spirit and intrepid devotion to duty were exemplified in an outstanding combat record in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
