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Williamson, John Leon

Date of birth:
November 5th, 1921 (Ash-Brunswick County/North Carolina, United States)
Date of death:
November 12th, 1942 (near Lunga Point/Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands)
Nationality:
American

Biography

Servicenumber 2626138.

John Leon Williamson was born on November 5th, 1921 as son to John Bunion williamson and Loverage Bennett, in Ash, Brunswick County, North Carolina. He enlisted in Raleigh, North Carolina on July 11th, 1940.

John was assigned to the cruiser U.S.S. San Fransisco (CA-38). During the attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7th, 1941 he was aboard the ship as Anti-Aircraft gunner. John Williamson was killed on November 12th, 1944 when a Japanese torpedo plane hit the ship near his gun mount.

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Seaman 1st Class
Unit:
Anti-aircraft Gunner U.S.S. San Fancisco (CA-38)
Awarded on:
November 6th, 1942
Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as Anti-Aircraft Gunner aboard the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island in the Solomons on the night of on November 12 and 13 1942. With a complete disregard for his own personal safety, Seaman First Class Williamson courageously refused to abandon his gun station and fearlessly remained at his gun. In the face of certain death from an onrushing enemy torpedo plane that had been set on fire, he maintained his accurate gunfire until the plane crashed on his station. He was killed in action. His unflinching bravery and gallant conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."

General Orders: Commander South Pacific Area and Force: Serial 066 (November 6, 1942).
Navy Cross
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Seaman 1st Class
Unit:
Anti-aircraft Gunner U.S.S. San Fancisco (CA-38)
Awarded after being killed in anti-Air Action off Lunga Point on November 12th, 1942.

Awarded posthumously.
Purple Heart

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