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Buckmaster, Elliott "Buck"

Date of birth:
October 19th, 1889 (Brooklyn/New York, United States)
Date of death:
October 10th, 1976 (Coronado/California, United States)
Nationality:
American (1776 - present, Republic)

Biography

Career:
July 6th, 1920 - July 12th, 1920: temporary Commanding Officer, USS Asheville (PG-21).

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Unit:
U.S.S. New Jersey (BB-16), U.S. Navy
Awarded on:
July 13th, 1914
Credited with rescuing a wounded sailor and bringing him to safety.
Navy and Marine Corps Medal (NMCM)
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Captain
Unit:
U.S.S. Yorktown (CV-5), U.S. Navy
Awarded on:
May 8th, 1942
"For exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility as Commanding Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the period 4 May to 8 May 1942. The air squadrons under the command of Captain Buckmaster successfully attacked and destroyed nine enemy ships and numerous aircraft at Tulagi on 4 May, and the two attacks on 7 and 8 May resulted in the sinking of one enemy Japanese carrier, one cruiser and the severe damaging or sinking of another carrier. On 8 May, he so skillfully maneuvered his ship as to successfully avoid nine torpedoes and all but one bomb of a sustained, coordinated air attack against the YORKTOWN by enemy carrier based aircraft. Captain Buckmaster's actions throughout these engagements were a source of inspiration to the personnel of the ship; his outstanding performance of duty and the fine spirit of aggressiveness displayed by the squadrons under his command are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 2050
Distinguished Service Medal - Navy/USMC
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Rear Admiral
Unit:
U.S.S. Yorktown (CV-5), U.S. Navy
Awarded on:
July 20th, 1942
Distinguished Service Medal - Navy/USMC
for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer, U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), flagship of Task Force SEVENTEEN, during successful actions against the enemy 4 June 1942. The air groups under his command successfully attacked and damaged three enemy carriers during this action. By his superior leadership he contributed most effectively to the success of this engagement. His performance of duty was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 19 (Gold Star in lieu)

Sources