Congressional Medal of Honor Society

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World War II - U.S. Navy

John Duncan Bulkeley

Details
  • Rank: Lieutenant (Highest Rank: Vice Admiral)
  • Conflict/Era: World War II
  • Unit/Command:
    Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron 3
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Navy
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: April 10, 1942
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: Philippine Waters, Philippine Islands
Citation
For extraordinary heroism, distinguished service, and conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty as commander of Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron 3, in Philippine waters during the period from 7 December 1941 to 10 April 1942. The remarkable achievement of Lt. Comdr. Bulkeley's command in damaging or destroying a notable number of Japanese enemy planes, surface combatant and merchant ships, and in dispersing landing parties and land-based enemy forces during the four months and eight days of operation without benefit of repairs, overhaul, or maintenance facilities for his squadron, is believed to be without precedence in this type of warfare. His dynamic forcefulness and daring in offensive action, his brilliantly planned and skillfully executed attacks, supplemented by a unique resourcefullness and ingenuity, characterize him as an outstanding leader of men and a gallant and intrepid seaman. These qualities coupled with a complete disregard for his own personal safety reflect great credit upon him and the Naval Service.
Medal of Honor Recipient John D. Bulkeley
Medal of Honor Recipient John D. Bulkeley
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Texas
  • Awarded Posthumously: No
  • Presentation Date & Details: August 4, 1942
    The White House, presented by Pres. Franklin D. Roosevelt
  • Born: August 19, 1911, San Antonio, Bexar County, TX, United States
  • Died: April 6, 1996, Silver Springs, MD, United States
  • Buried: Arlington National Cemetery (PM) (5-129-9-RH-LH), Arlington, VA, United States
 

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