I had the honor of hanging out with one really cool veteran at the museum yesterday. Charles Standard was a Helldiver pilot who was awarded the Navy Cross. I would love to find a photo of his plane. Or at least a few shots from when he was aboard in 44. We are hopefully doing a video interview in a few weeks. Having walked the decks of the Yorktown at Patriots Point, all I can say is it gave me goose bumps. He has some great stories.
Quote:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Charles Evert Standard, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron ONE (VB-1), attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action on 20 July 1944, while deployed in the Pacific War Area. While operating at extreme range and in the face of strong enemy anti-aircraft fire and enemy air opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Standard participated in a determined dive bombing attack on an enemy cruiser, scoring a direct hit. When his fuel was about exhausted, he returned to a friendly carrier at night under very hazardous and dangerous conditions. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander Fast Carrier Task Force: Serial 0439 (August 20, 1944)
Action Date: June 20, 1944
Service: Navy
Rank: Lieutenant Junior Grade
Company: Bombing Squadron 1 (VB-1)
Division: U.S.S. Yorktown (CV-10)
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