Intro
Discover the remarkable life of Harry L. Stearns, a distinguished American naval officer. Learn about his illustrious career, notable accomplishments, and impact on the US Navy. From his early days as a naval cadet to his rise through the ranks, explore the fascinating story of this American naval hero.
Harry L. Stearns was a notable American naval officer who served in the United States Navy during World War I and World War II. He is best known for his exceptional leadership skills, strategic thinking, and bravery in combat, which earned him numerous awards and decorations.
Stearns was born on June 23, 1897, in Plymouth, Massachusetts. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1917 and was commissioned as an ensign in the United States Navy. During his early years in the Navy, Stearns served on several ships, including the USS New York and the USS Utah.
During World War I, Stearns served as a lieutenant on the USS Dyer, a destroyer that operated in the Atlantic Ocean. He played a key role in convoying merchant ships and escorting troop transports, earning him the Navy Cross for his exceptional service.
In the interwar period, Stearns continued to serve in the Navy, holding various commands and staff positions. He was a strong advocate for naval aviation and played a key role in the development of the Navy's aircraft carrier program.
World War II Service
During World War II, Stearns served as the commanding officer of the USS Lexington, a fleet carrier that played a key role in the Pacific Theater. He led the ship through several major battles, including the Battle of the Coral Sea and the Battle of Midway.
Stearns' leadership and tactical skills were instrumental in the success of the USS Lexington and the Allied forces in the Pacific. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for his exceptional service during the war.
Battle of the Coral Sea
The Battle of the Coral Sea was a pivotal naval battle fought in May 1942. Stearns, as the commanding officer of the USS Lexington, played a key role in the battle, which was fought against a Japanese fleet led by Admiral Takeo Takagi.
The battle was intense, with both sides suffering heavy losses. The USS Lexington was heavily damaged, but Stearns' exceptional leadership and tactical skills helped to save the ship and its crew.
Battle of Midway
The Battle of Midway was another major naval battle fought in June 1942. Stearns, again as the commanding officer of the USS Lexington, played a key role in the battle, which was fought against a Japanese fleet led by Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto.
The battle was a decisive victory for the Allied forces, with the Japanese suffering heavy losses. Stearns' leadership and tactical skills were instrumental in the success of the USS Lexington and the Allied forces.
Awards and Decorations
Stearns was awarded numerous awards and decorations for his exceptional service in the United States Navy. Some of his notable awards include:
- Navy Cross
- Distinguished Service Medal
- Legion of Merit
- Navy Commendation Medal
- World War I Victory Medal
- American Defense Service Medal
- American Campaign Medal
- Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal
- World War II Victory Medal
Navy Cross Citation
Stearns' Navy Cross citation reads:
"For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as commanding officer of the USS Lexington, during the Battle of the Coral Sea, May 7-8, 1942. Commander Stearns, with cool and courageous leadership, directed the operations of his ship with outstanding skill and success, contributing materially to the defeat of the enemy. His exceptional bravery, tactical skill, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
Legacy
Stearns' legacy as a naval officer is one of exceptional leadership, bravery, and tactical skill. He is remembered as one of the most decorated naval officers in American history, with a career spanning two world wars.
Stearns' contributions to the development of the Navy's aircraft carrier program and his exceptional service during World War II have had a lasting impact on the United States Navy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Harry L. Stearns was a notable American naval officer who served with distinction in the United States Navy during World War I and World War II. His exceptional leadership skills, strategic thinking, and bravery in combat earned him numerous awards and decorations.
Stearns' legacy as a naval officer continues to inspire and motivate sailors and officers in the United States Navy today.
Gallery of American Naval Officers
What was Harry L. Stearns' role in the United States Navy?
+Harry L. Stearns was a naval officer who served in the United States Navy during World War I and World War II. He held various commands and staff positions, including commanding officer of the USS Lexington.
What awards and decorations did Harry L. Stearns receive?
+Harry L. Stearns received numerous awards and decorations for his exceptional service, including the Navy Cross, Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal, and World War I and II Victory Medals.
What was Harry L. Stearns' legacy as a naval officer?
+Harry L. Stearns' legacy as a naval officer is one of exceptional leadership, bravery, and tactical skill. He is remembered as one of the most decorated naval officers in American history, with a career spanning two world wars.