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Mack, Harold John

Date of birth:
December 29th, 1917 (LeMars/Iowa, United States)
Date of death:
August 9th, 1942 (near Savo, Solomon Islands)
Mentioned on:
American Cemetery and Memorial Manila
Service number:
3212522
Nationality:
American (1776 - present, Republic)

Biography

Harold John Mack entered service with the U.S. Navy on May 18th, 1938 and was on September 14th, 1938, after his training at Great Lakes, Illinois, stationed aboard the U.S.S. Vincennes.

Harold Mack was seriuously wounded to both of his legs during the Battle at Savo on August 9th, 1942. When the ship sunk, Mack was reported missing in action and was declared dead on August 10th, 1943.

On April 11th, 1944 a destroyer-escort was launched that received the name U.S.S. Mack (DE-358). The ship was comissioned on August 16th, 1944.

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Gunner’s Mate 2nd Class
Unit:
U.S.S. Vincennes (CA-44), U.S. Navy
Awarded on:
March 21st, 1943
Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving aboard the U.S.S. VINCENNES (CA-44), in action against enemy Japanese forces after that vessel was attacked by enemy aircraft off Guadalcanal, in the Solomon Islands, on 9 August 1942. Gunner's Mate Second Class Mack was incapacitated by severe wounds in both legs. In spite of his injuries he continued to fulfill his duties as gun captain until ordered to abandon ship. After the loss of the ship, he was reported missing in action. The conduct of Gunner's Mate Second Class Mack throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Awarded posthumously.
Serial 00566, Commander South Pacific Force and Area (March 21, 1943).
Navy Cross

Sources

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