USS ESSEX INDUCTEES

Enlisted Combat Aircrewmen Roll of Honor

    Wings of Valor

Proclamation 

In lasting recognition of the gallantry and self sacrifice displayed by the many enlisted combat aircrewmen who teamed with their pilots, to whom they entrusted their fate, to engage the enemy in the air, on land and on the sea, no matter the odds.  

The enlisted combat aircrew roll of honor is dedicated this day to ensure forever that their valiant deeds are neither diminished nor lost in the annuals of naval aviation history. The exploits of those hereon identified best exemplify the countless acts of courage under fire performed among the many who have served, and will serve their nation as Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard enlisted combat aircrewmen.  

Proclaimed and dedicated 10 October 1996 onboard the aircraft carrier USS YORKTOWN (CV-10), the national memorial to carrier aviation, by enlisted combat aircrewmen representing each of the nation's sea services.  

Sponored in lasting admiration and gratitude by the pilots, to whom they entrusted their fate.  

Endowed by RADM James D. "Jig Dog" Ramage, USN (Ret.)

IN MEMORY AND HONOR OF THOSE HEREON IDENTIFIED

AS WELL AS THOSE DESERVING ENLISTED COMBAT AIRCREWMEN

KNOWN BUT TO GOD

Essex TBM Gunner

TBM Gunner - Ready to fly.

Photo by PHOM Paul Madden - "Essex Buccaneer".

The First Essex CV9 Combat Aircrew Inductees

1997

John Montgomery

John Montgomery, ARM2c,VB15, SB2C

Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, Purple Heart

WWII

The story of Bill Rising and John Montgomery

Shotdown in the Pacific

***

Alfred R. Smith, ARM1c, VS41,VB4,VB9,VB12

Ranger, Essex, Randolph

DFC, 8 Air Medals

WWII

***

Stan Whitby

Stanley Whitby, ARM2c,VB15, SB2C

Navy-Marine Corps Medal, Air Medal, Purple Heart

KIA

WWII

Stan's Brother

Whitby Awarded Medal for Heroism

***


The Essex Enlisted Combat Aircrew Inductees

1998 - 2003


1998 2002

1999 2003

2000 - 2001 2004

More information on the Enlisted Combat Aircrewmen Roll of Honor, including lists of all the inductees, can be found on the  US NAVY PATROL SQUADRONS web site. 

The First Combat Aircrew Roll of Honor Inductee

About the Enlisted Combat Aircrewmen Roll of Honor


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This page last updated December 30, 2005