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Congressional Medal of Honor Society

Stories of Sacrifice

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World War II - U.S. Navy

George Fleming Davis

Details
  • Rank: Commander
  • Conflict/Era: World War II
  • Unit/Command:
    U.S.S. Walke
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Navy
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: January 6, 1945
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, Philippine Islands
Citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the U.S.S. Walke engaged in a detached mission in support of minesweeping operations to clear the waters for entry of our heavy surface and amphibious forces preparatory to the invasion of Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, Philippine Islands, 6 January 1945. Operating without gun support of other surface ships when four Japanese suicide planes were detected flying low overland to attack simultaneously, Comdr. Davis boldly took his position in the exposed wings of the bridge and directed control to pick up the leading plane and open fire. Alert and fearless as the Walke's deadly fire sent the first target crashing into the water and caught the second as it passed close over the bridge to plunge into the sea of portside, he remained steadfast in the path of the third plane plunging swiftly to crash the after end of the bridge structure. Seriously wounded when the craft struck, drenched with gasoline and immediately enveloped in flames, he conned the Walke in the midst of the wreckage; he rallied his command to heroic efforts; he exhorted his officers and men to save the ship and, still on his feet, saw the barrage from his guns destroy the fourth suicide bomber. With the fires under control and the safety of the ship assured, he consented to be carried below. Succumbing several hours later, Comdr. Davis by his example of valor and his unhesitating self-sacrifice, steeled the fighting spirit of his command into unyielding purpose in completing a vital mission. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.

Medal of Honor Recipient George F. Davis
Medal of Honor Recipient George F. Davis
Additional Details
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: November 16, 1945

    Washington, D.C., presented by Sec. of the Navy James Forrestal to his Widow

  • Born: March 23, 1911, Manila, Luzon, Philippine Islands
  • Died: January 6, 1945, Luzon, Philippine Islands
  • Buried: A.B.M.C. Manila Cemetery (Wall of the Missing) buried at sea, Manila, Philippine Islands, Philippine Islands
 

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