Harold John Mack
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Harold John Mack | |
|---|---|
| 29 December 1??? – August 10, 1943 | |
| Place of birth | LeMars, Iowa |
| Place of death | at sea, near Savo Island |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/branch | United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1938–1943 |
| Rank | Gunner’s Mate second class |
| Unit | USS Vincennes (CA-44) |
| Battles/wars | World War II *Battle of Savo Island |
| Awards | Navy Cross (posthumous) |
Harold John Mack was born 29 December in LeMars, Iowa.
Contents |
[edit] Navy career
Mack enlisted in the Navy 18 May 1938 and reported to USS Vincennes (CA-44) on 14 September 1938 after completion of training at Great Lakes, Illinois.
[edit] Awarded the Navy Cross
During action against the Japanese forces off Savo Island 9 August 1942, Gunner’s Mate 2/c 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, Mack was reported missing in action and was declared dead on 10 August 1943. For his “courageous fighting spirit” and heroism Mack was awarded the Navy Cross posthumously.
[edit] Namesake
USS Mack (DE-358) was named in his honor. She was launched 11 April 1944 by Consolidated Steel Corp., Shipbuilding Division, Orange, Texas; sponsored by Mrs. Gertrude Mack, mother of Harold John Mack, GM2/c; and commissioned 16 August 1944, Lt. Cmdr. J. F. Nelson, USNR, in command.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- This article includes text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.
