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Johnson, Douglas Pollock

Date of birth:
November 22nd, 1896 (Mexico/Missouri, United States)
Nationality:
American (1776 - present, Republic)

Biography

15 Jan 1945: Relieved Captain Gavin as commanding officer of USS Ranger at San Diego.

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Captain
Unit:
U.S.S. Fanshaw Bay (CVE-70), U.S. Navy
Awarded on:
February 11th, 1945
"For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. FANSHAW BAY (CVE-70), during a strike against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet, in the Battle off Samar Island, on 25 October 1944. When a formidable column of Japanese battleships, cruisers and destroyers attacked our small Task Unit of Escort Carriers, Captain Johnson skillfully maneuvered his ship to avoid crippling blows from an enemy force vastly superior in numbers, armor, firepower and speed, successfully brought the FANSHAW BAY through this history-making battle, thereby contributing essentially to the eventual rout of this powerful Japanese force. His leadership, professional skill and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 0678
Navy Cross

Sources

Photo