John Munro was the son of Thomas W. Butler and Agnes P. Munro who married about 1899. Thomas worked for the railroad for many years before going to work at the sugar factory in Sugar City, CO. John's siblings were, George M., Janet, Marian M., Thomas W. (died young), Mildred, and Theodore Roosevelt Butler. John graduated from high school in 1936 and entered the University of Colorado at Boulder in the fall of that year. He joined the Delta Tau Delta fraternity and was active through 1939. He was also a member of the Mortar and Pestle Pharmacy Club. It is not known if John finished his degree. In 1940, he was not listed as an active member of his fraternity and his senior photo was not published. Also, he enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserves in late April 1940 in CA. He may have graduated early but it's unknown if he did.
John enlisted on 24 April 1940 at the RSDH, Denver, CO as a Private First Class (PFC), US Marine Corps Reserve. He reported to the Platoon Leaders Unit, 12th Reserve District, Marine Base, Navy Yard, Mare Island, CA on 29 April 1940. He was released from active duty and sent home. He was to report on 21 Jun 1940 to Western Platoon Leaders Class Reserve 1940 at MCB, San Diego. He was enroute from Sugar City, CO 5-7 July 1940. PFC Butler began the Junior Leadership course on 7 July 1940. He completed the course on 16 August 1940 and was released from the Junior course to return home to Sugar City, CO. On 15 Oct 1940, PFC Butler was assigned to active duty. Several days later on 17 Oct, he reported to the Marine Corps Reserve Aviation Unit, Naval Reserve Aviation Base, Long Beach, CA. He was designated a Student Naval Aviation Pilot (SNAP). He was detailed to duty involving flying and assigned to elimination flight training. He completed the elimination training on 12 Nov 1940 and the next day he was relieved from active duty and sent home to await further orders.
He was reassigned to the 12th Reserve District for training. On 15 Dec 1940, he was discharged to accept an appointment as an Aviation Cadet (AvnCdt), USMCR. The next day AvnCdt Butler joined the Aviation Unit, 12th Reserve Dist, MB Navy Yard, Mare Island, CA. Butler was assigned to Aviation Cadet Class 164-C in early March 1941 at NAS Pensacola. He was in a flying status under instruction as a Student Naval Aviator (SNA), USMCR. He was transferred to NAS Miami in Sept for additional aviation training under instruction. Then on 10 Oct 1941, he accepted a commission as a 2nd Lt USMCR (AVC). His date of rank was 18 Aug 1941. The same day he received his designation as a naval aviator (#8849) effective 11 Sept 1941. On 13 Oct, he received orders to report to the Second MAW, NAS San Diego, CA. He was authorized a 15 day delay in reporting. Butler was assigned to the HdQtrs squadron, 2d MAW. In Jan 1942, he was assigned to 3 weeks of aircraft training. Then on 24 Jan 1942, he transferred to MAG-21, 2dMAW, in Ewa, Oahu, T.H.
Butler embarked on the 24th on board the USS President Hayes. She sailed the next day from San Diego to Pearl Harbor. Second Lt Butler was on board the USS Curtiss (AV-4) sailing from Pearl Harbor on 24 March 1942 enroute to Midway Island. The eight second lieutenants; Robert J.R Bear, Bruce H. Ek, John M. Butler, Ray A Corry, Jr., Charles M. Kunz, Ellwood Q. Lindsay, John Musselman, and Albert W. Tweedy, were transferring from HdQtrs MAG-21, 2nd MAW, Ewa, Oahu, T.H. They arrived at Midway on 28 Mar 1942. They reported to the C.O. MAG-22 on Midway for duty. By 1 April Butler had transferred to VMF-221 on Midway for duty. He was the squadron photographic Officer, Assistant Ordnance and Assistant Gunnery Officer.
Beginning 22 May, MAG-22 had been on alert to expect a large assault on the island by Japanese naval forces at any time. That time came in the early morning of 04 Jun 1942. At 0555 that morning the Midway radar installation and PBY reconnaissance aircraft reported a large group of enemy planes approaching Midway. All Midway aircraft were ordered into the air according to pre-planned directives. Three fighter divisions of VMF-221; Maj. Parks, Capt. Carey, and Capt. Curtin flew from NAS Midway, formed up, and were vectored to intercept the incoming force of over 100 Japanese fighters and bombers. Initially successful in shooting down a number of enemy planes, the three divisions were soon overwhelmed by superior numbers of enemy fighters.
In the ensuing melee VMF-221 suffered heavy losses. Major Parks' division of 6 planes suffered the loss of 5 of its aircraft, casualties of the Japanese fighter onslaught. Declared missing in action from Major Parks' division were Capt. John R Alvord, and 2d Lts. John M Butler, David W. Pinkerton Jr., Eugene P. Madole and Major Parks. The two other divisions led by Capt. Hennessy and Capt. Armistead that were later vectored to the enemy to assist Major Parks did not fair well either, losing seven of thirteen fighters. In all thirteen of eighteen fighters from these 3 divisions were lost. All those lost were listed as missing in action. Their remains were unrecoverable. They were listed as presumed dead on 5 Jun 1943.
2d Lt John Munro (no "e") Butler was awarded (posthumously) the Navy Cross, Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon, American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with one bronze battle star, and the World War II Victory medal. He was not eligible for the Combat Action Ribbon.
----------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Munro Butler, Second Lieutenant, United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE, Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO, Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Delivering a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Butler aided in the disrupting the plans of the enemy and lessening the effectiveness of their attack, thereby contributing materially to the success of our forces. As a result of his courageous and daring tactics and because of the circumstances attendant upon this engagement, there can be little doubt that Second Lieutenant Butler gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country. He displayed the characteristics of an excellent airman in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942.
---------------------------------------
Marine Air Group 22 Presidential Unit Citation:
"For conspicuous courage and heroism in combat at Midway Island during June 1942. Outnumbered five to one, Marine Aircraft Group 22 boldly intercepted a heavily escorted enemy bombing force, disrupting their attack and preventing serious damage to island installations. Operating with half of their dive-bomber's obsolete and in poor mechanical conditions, which necessitated vulnerable glide bombing tactics, they succeeded in inflicting heavy damage on Japanese surface units of a large enemy task force. The skill and gallant perseverance of flight and ground personnel of Marine Aircraft Group 22, fighting under tremendously adverse and dangerous conditions were essential factors in the unyielding defense of Midway."
----------------------------------------
His family also received a commemoration from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It reads:
In grateful memory of John Monro Butler who died in the service of his country at Midway Islands on 5 JUNE 1943 (Presumed). He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die that freedom might live and grow and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it, he lives -- in a way that humbles the undertakings of most men.
(Signed) Franklin D. Roosevelt,
President of the United States
---------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat was/is the Air Medal.
[Bio #227 composed by Gerry Lawton (GML470). Bio updated 17 Jul 2022.]
Military Hall of Honor #89230
Find A Grave Memorial #56116918
John enlisted on 24 April 1940 at the RSDH, Denver, CO as a Private First Class (PFC), US Marine Corps Reserve. He reported to the Platoon Leaders Unit, 12th Reserve District, Marine Base, Navy Yard, Mare Island, CA on 29 April 1940. He was released from active duty and sent home. He was to report on 21 Jun 1940 to Western Platoon Leaders Class Reserve 1940 at MCB, San Diego. He was enroute from Sugar City, CO 5-7 July 1940. PFC Butler began the Junior Leadership course on 7 July 1940. He completed the course on 16 August 1940 and was released from the Junior course to return home to Sugar City, CO. On 15 Oct 1940, PFC Butler was assigned to active duty. Several days later on 17 Oct, he reported to the Marine Corps Reserve Aviation Unit, Naval Reserve Aviation Base, Long Beach, CA. He was designated a Student Naval Aviation Pilot (SNAP). He was detailed to duty involving flying and assigned to elimination flight training. He completed the elimination training on 12 Nov 1940 and the next day he was relieved from active duty and sent home to await further orders.
He was reassigned to the 12th Reserve District for training. On 15 Dec 1940, he was discharged to accept an appointment as an Aviation Cadet (AvnCdt), USMCR. The next day AvnCdt Butler joined the Aviation Unit, 12th Reserve Dist, MB Navy Yard, Mare Island, CA. Butler was assigned to Aviation Cadet Class 164-C in early March 1941 at NAS Pensacola. He was in a flying status under instruction as a Student Naval Aviator (SNA), USMCR. He was transferred to NAS Miami in Sept for additional aviation training under instruction. Then on 10 Oct 1941, he accepted a commission as a 2nd Lt USMCR (AVC). His date of rank was 18 Aug 1941. The same day he received his designation as a naval aviator (#8849) effective 11 Sept 1941. On 13 Oct, he received orders to report to the Second MAW, NAS San Diego, CA. He was authorized a 15 day delay in reporting. Butler was assigned to the HdQtrs squadron, 2d MAW. In Jan 1942, he was assigned to 3 weeks of aircraft training. Then on 24 Jan 1942, he transferred to MAG-21, 2dMAW, in Ewa, Oahu, T.H.
Butler embarked on the 24th on board the USS President Hayes. She sailed the next day from San Diego to Pearl Harbor. Second Lt Butler was on board the USS Curtiss (AV-4) sailing from Pearl Harbor on 24 March 1942 enroute to Midway Island. The eight second lieutenants; Robert J.R Bear, Bruce H. Ek, John M. Butler, Ray A Corry, Jr., Charles M. Kunz, Ellwood Q. Lindsay, John Musselman, and Albert W. Tweedy, were transferring from HdQtrs MAG-21, 2nd MAW, Ewa, Oahu, T.H. They arrived at Midway on 28 Mar 1942. They reported to the C.O. MAG-22 on Midway for duty. By 1 April Butler had transferred to VMF-221 on Midway for duty. He was the squadron photographic Officer, Assistant Ordnance and Assistant Gunnery Officer.
Beginning 22 May, MAG-22 had been on alert to expect a large assault on the island by Japanese naval forces at any time. That time came in the early morning of 04 Jun 1942. At 0555 that morning the Midway radar installation and PBY reconnaissance aircraft reported a large group of enemy planes approaching Midway. All Midway aircraft were ordered into the air according to pre-planned directives. Three fighter divisions of VMF-221; Maj. Parks, Capt. Carey, and Capt. Curtin flew from NAS Midway, formed up, and were vectored to intercept the incoming force of over 100 Japanese fighters and bombers. Initially successful in shooting down a number of enemy planes, the three divisions were soon overwhelmed by superior numbers of enemy fighters.
In the ensuing melee VMF-221 suffered heavy losses. Major Parks' division of 6 planes suffered the loss of 5 of its aircraft, casualties of the Japanese fighter onslaught. Declared missing in action from Major Parks' division were Capt. John R Alvord, and 2d Lts. John M Butler, David W. Pinkerton Jr., Eugene P. Madole and Major Parks. The two other divisions led by Capt. Hennessy and Capt. Armistead that were later vectored to the enemy to assist Major Parks did not fair well either, losing seven of thirteen fighters. In all thirteen of eighteen fighters from these 3 divisions were lost. All those lost were listed as missing in action. Their remains were unrecoverable. They were listed as presumed dead on 5 Jun 1943.
2d Lt John Munro (no "e") Butler was awarded (posthumously) the Navy Cross, Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon, American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with one bronze battle star, and the World War II Victory medal. He was not eligible for the Combat Action Ribbon.
----------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Munro Butler, Second Lieutenant, United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE, Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO, Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Delivering a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Butler aided in the disrupting the plans of the enemy and lessening the effectiveness of their attack, thereby contributing materially to the success of our forces. As a result of his courageous and daring tactics and because of the circumstances attendant upon this engagement, there can be little doubt that Second Lieutenant Butler gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country. He displayed the characteristics of an excellent airman in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942.
---------------------------------------
Marine Air Group 22 Presidential Unit Citation:
"For conspicuous courage and heroism in combat at Midway Island during June 1942. Outnumbered five to one, Marine Aircraft Group 22 boldly intercepted a heavily escorted enemy bombing force, disrupting their attack and preventing serious damage to island installations. Operating with half of their dive-bomber's obsolete and in poor mechanical conditions, which necessitated vulnerable glide bombing tactics, they succeeded in inflicting heavy damage on Japanese surface units of a large enemy task force. The skill and gallant perseverance of flight and ground personnel of Marine Aircraft Group 22, fighting under tremendously adverse and dangerous conditions were essential factors in the unyielding defense of Midway."
----------------------------------------
His family also received a commemoration from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It reads:
In grateful memory of John Monro Butler who died in the service of his country at Midway Islands on 5 JUNE 1943 (Presumed). He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die that freedom might live and grow and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it, he lives -- in a way that humbles the undertakings of most men.
(Signed) Franklin D. Roosevelt,
President of the United States
---------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat was/is the Air Medal.
[Bio #227 composed by Gerry Lawton (GML470). Bio updated 17 Jul 2022.]
Military Hall of Honor #89230
Find A Grave Memorial #56116918
John Munro was the son of Thomas W. Butler and Agnes P. Munro who married about 1899. Thomas worked for the railroad for many years before going to work at the sugar factory in Sugar City, CO. John's siblings were, George M., Janet, Marian M., Thomas W. (died young), Mildred, and Theodore Roosevelt Butler. John graduated from high school in 1936 and entered the University of Colorado at Boulder in the fall of that year. He joined the Delta Tau Delta fraternity and was active through 1939. He was also a member of the Mortar and Pestle Pharmacy Club. It is not known if John finished his degree. In 1940, he was not listed as an active member of his fraternity and his senior photo was not published. Also, he enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserves in late April 1940 in CA. He may have graduated early but it's unknown if he did.
John enlisted on 24 April 1940 at the RSDH, Denver, CO as a Private First Class (PFC), US Marine Corps Reserve. He reported to the Platoon Leaders Unit, 12th Reserve District, Marine Base, Navy Yard, Mare Island, CA on 29 April 1940. He was released from active duty and sent home. He was to report on 21 Jun 1940 to Western Platoon Leaders Class Reserve 1940 at MCB, San Diego. He was enroute from Sugar City, CO 5-7 July 1940. PFC Butler began the Junior Leadership course on 7 July 1940. He completed the course on 16 August 1940 and was released from the Junior course to return home to Sugar City, CO. On 15 Oct 1940, PFC Butler was assigned to active duty. Several days later on 17 Oct, he reported to the Marine Corps Reserve Aviation Unit, Naval Reserve Aviation Base, Long Beach, CA. He was designated a Student Naval Aviation Pilot (SNAP). He was detailed to duty involving flying and assigned to elimination flight training. He completed the elimination training on 12 Nov 1940 and the next day he was relieved from active duty and sent home to await further orders.
He was reassigned to the 12th Reserve District for training. On 15 Dec 1940, he was discharged to accept an appointment as an Aviation Cadet (AvnCdt), USMCR. The next day AvnCdt Butler joined the Aviation Unit, 12th Reserve Dist, MB Navy Yard, Mare Island, CA. Butler was assigned to Aviation Cadet Class 164-C in early March 1941 at NAS Pensacola. He was in a flying status under instruction as a Student Naval Aviator (SNA), USMCR. He was transferred to NAS Miami in Sept for additional aviation training under instruction. Then on 10 Oct 1941, he accepted a commission as a 2nd Lt USMCR (AVC). His date of rank was 18 Aug 1941. The same day he received his designation as a naval aviator (#8849) effective 11 Sept 1941. On 13 Oct, he received orders to report to the Second MAW, NAS San Diego, CA. He was authorized a 15 day delay in reporting. Butler was assigned to the HdQtrs squadron, 2d MAW. In Jan 1942, he was assigned to 3 weeks of aircraft training. Then on 24 Jan 1942, he transferred to MAG-21, 2dMAW, in Ewa, Oahu, T.H.
Butler embarked on the 24th on board the USS President Hayes. She sailed the next day from San Diego to Pearl Harbor. Second Lt Butler was on board the USS Curtiss (AV-4) sailing from Pearl Harbor on 24 March 1942 enroute to Midway Island. The eight second lieutenants; Robert J.R Bear, Bruce H. Ek, John M. Butler, Ray A Corry, Jr., Charles M. Kunz, Ellwood Q. Lindsay, John Musselman, and Albert W. Tweedy, were transferring from HdQtrs MAG-21, 2nd MAW, Ewa, Oahu, T.H. They arrived at Midway on 28 Mar 1942. They reported to the C.O. MAG-22 on Midway for duty. By 1 April Butler had transferred to VMF-221 on Midway for duty. He was the squadron photographic Officer, Assistant Ordnance and Assistant Gunnery Officer.
Beginning 22 May, MAG-22 had been on alert to expect a large assault on the island by Japanese naval forces at any time. That time came in the early morning of 04 Jun 1942. At 0555 that morning the Midway radar installation and PBY reconnaissance aircraft reported a large group of enemy planes approaching Midway. All Midway aircraft were ordered into the air according to pre-planned directives. Three fighter divisions of VMF-221; Maj. Parks, Capt. Carey, and Capt. Curtin flew from NAS Midway, formed up, and were vectored to intercept the incoming force of over 100 Japanese fighters and bombers. Initially successful in shooting down a number of enemy planes, the three divisions were soon overwhelmed by superior numbers of enemy fighters.
In the ensuing melee VMF-221 suffered heavy losses. Major Parks' division of 6 planes suffered the loss of 5 of its aircraft, casualties of the Japanese fighter onslaught. Declared missing in action from Major Parks' division were Capt. John R Alvord, and 2d Lts. John M Butler, David W. Pinkerton Jr., Eugene P. Madole and Major Parks. The two other divisions led by Capt. Hennessy and Capt. Armistead that were later vectored to the enemy to assist Major Parks did not fair well either, losing seven of thirteen fighters. In all thirteen of eighteen fighters from these 3 divisions were lost. All those lost were listed as missing in action. Their remains were unrecoverable. They were listed as presumed dead on 5 Jun 1943.
2d Lt John Munro (no "e") Butler was awarded (posthumously) the Navy Cross, Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon, American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with one bronze battle star, and the World War II Victory medal. He was not eligible for the Combat Action Ribbon.
----------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Munro Butler, Second Lieutenant, United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE, Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO, Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Delivering a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Butler aided in the disrupting the plans of the enemy and lessening the effectiveness of their attack, thereby contributing materially to the success of our forces. As a result of his courageous and daring tactics and because of the circumstances attendant upon this engagement, there can be little doubt that Second Lieutenant Butler gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country. He displayed the characteristics of an excellent airman in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942.
---------------------------------------
Marine Air Group 22 Presidential Unit Citation:
"For conspicuous courage and heroism in combat at Midway Island during June 1942. Outnumbered five to one, Marine Aircraft Group 22 boldly intercepted a heavily escorted enemy bombing force, disrupting their attack and preventing serious damage to island installations. Operating with half of their dive-bomber's obsolete and in poor mechanical conditions, which necessitated vulnerable glide bombing tactics, they succeeded in inflicting heavy damage on Japanese surface units of a large enemy task force. The skill and gallant perseverance of flight and ground personnel of Marine Aircraft Group 22, fighting under tremendously adverse and dangerous conditions were essential factors in the unyielding defense of Midway."
----------------------------------------
His family also received a commemoration from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It reads:
In grateful memory of John Monro Butler who died in the service of his country at Midway Islands on 5 JUNE 1943 (Presumed). He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die that freedom might live and grow and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it, he lives -- in a way that humbles the undertakings of most men.
(Signed) Franklin D. Roosevelt,
President of the United States
---------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat was/is the Air Medal.
[Bio #227 composed by Gerry Lawton (GML470). Bio updated 17 Jul 2022.]
Military Hall of Honor #89230
Find A Grave Memorial #56116918
John enlisted on 24 April 1940 at the RSDH, Denver, CO as a Private First Class (PFC), US Marine Corps Reserve. He reported to the Platoon Leaders Unit, 12th Reserve District, Marine Base, Navy Yard, Mare Island, CA on 29 April 1940. He was released from active duty and sent home. He was to report on 21 Jun 1940 to Western Platoon Leaders Class Reserve 1940 at MCB, San Diego. He was enroute from Sugar City, CO 5-7 July 1940. PFC Butler began the Junior Leadership course on 7 July 1940. He completed the course on 16 August 1940 and was released from the Junior course to return home to Sugar City, CO. On 15 Oct 1940, PFC Butler was assigned to active duty. Several days later on 17 Oct, he reported to the Marine Corps Reserve Aviation Unit, Naval Reserve Aviation Base, Long Beach, CA. He was designated a Student Naval Aviation Pilot (SNAP). He was detailed to duty involving flying and assigned to elimination flight training. He completed the elimination training on 12 Nov 1940 and the next day he was relieved from active duty and sent home to await further orders.
He was reassigned to the 12th Reserve District for training. On 15 Dec 1940, he was discharged to accept an appointment as an Aviation Cadet (AvnCdt), USMCR. The next day AvnCdt Butler joined the Aviation Unit, 12th Reserve Dist, MB Navy Yard, Mare Island, CA. Butler was assigned to Aviation Cadet Class 164-C in early March 1941 at NAS Pensacola. He was in a flying status under instruction as a Student Naval Aviator (SNA), USMCR. He was transferred to NAS Miami in Sept for additional aviation training under instruction. Then on 10 Oct 1941, he accepted a commission as a 2nd Lt USMCR (AVC). His date of rank was 18 Aug 1941. The same day he received his designation as a naval aviator (#8849) effective 11 Sept 1941. On 13 Oct, he received orders to report to the Second MAW, NAS San Diego, CA. He was authorized a 15 day delay in reporting. Butler was assigned to the HdQtrs squadron, 2d MAW. In Jan 1942, he was assigned to 3 weeks of aircraft training. Then on 24 Jan 1942, he transferred to MAG-21, 2dMAW, in Ewa, Oahu, T.H.
Butler embarked on the 24th on board the USS President Hayes. She sailed the next day from San Diego to Pearl Harbor. Second Lt Butler was on board the USS Curtiss (AV-4) sailing from Pearl Harbor on 24 March 1942 enroute to Midway Island. The eight second lieutenants; Robert J.R Bear, Bruce H. Ek, John M. Butler, Ray A Corry, Jr., Charles M. Kunz, Ellwood Q. Lindsay, John Musselman, and Albert W. Tweedy, were transferring from HdQtrs MAG-21, 2nd MAW, Ewa, Oahu, T.H. They arrived at Midway on 28 Mar 1942. They reported to the C.O. MAG-22 on Midway for duty. By 1 April Butler had transferred to VMF-221 on Midway for duty. He was the squadron photographic Officer, Assistant Ordnance and Assistant Gunnery Officer.
Beginning 22 May, MAG-22 had been on alert to expect a large assault on the island by Japanese naval forces at any time. That time came in the early morning of 04 Jun 1942. At 0555 that morning the Midway radar installation and PBY reconnaissance aircraft reported a large group of enemy planes approaching Midway. All Midway aircraft were ordered into the air according to pre-planned directives. Three fighter divisions of VMF-221; Maj. Parks, Capt. Carey, and Capt. Curtin flew from NAS Midway, formed up, and were vectored to intercept the incoming force of over 100 Japanese fighters and bombers. Initially successful in shooting down a number of enemy planes, the three divisions were soon overwhelmed by superior numbers of enemy fighters.
In the ensuing melee VMF-221 suffered heavy losses. Major Parks' division of 6 planes suffered the loss of 5 of its aircraft, casualties of the Japanese fighter onslaught. Declared missing in action from Major Parks' division were Capt. John R Alvord, and 2d Lts. John M Butler, David W. Pinkerton Jr., Eugene P. Madole and Major Parks. The two other divisions led by Capt. Hennessy and Capt. Armistead that were later vectored to the enemy to assist Major Parks did not fair well either, losing seven of thirteen fighters. In all thirteen of eighteen fighters from these 3 divisions were lost. All those lost were listed as missing in action. Their remains were unrecoverable. They were listed as presumed dead on 5 Jun 1943.
2d Lt John Munro (no "e") Butler was awarded (posthumously) the Navy Cross, Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon, American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with one bronze battle star, and the World War II Victory medal. He was not eligible for the Combat Action Ribbon.
----------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Munro Butler, Second Lieutenant, United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE, Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO, Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Delivering a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Butler aided in the disrupting the plans of the enemy and lessening the effectiveness of their attack, thereby contributing materially to the success of our forces. As a result of his courageous and daring tactics and because of the circumstances attendant upon this engagement, there can be little doubt that Second Lieutenant Butler gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country. He displayed the characteristics of an excellent airman in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942.
---------------------------------------
Marine Air Group 22 Presidential Unit Citation:
"For conspicuous courage and heroism in combat at Midway Island during June 1942. Outnumbered five to one, Marine Aircraft Group 22 boldly intercepted a heavily escorted enemy bombing force, disrupting their attack and preventing serious damage to island installations. Operating with half of their dive-bomber's obsolete and in poor mechanical conditions, which necessitated vulnerable glide bombing tactics, they succeeded in inflicting heavy damage on Japanese surface units of a large enemy task force. The skill and gallant perseverance of flight and ground personnel of Marine Aircraft Group 22, fighting under tremendously adverse and dangerous conditions were essential factors in the unyielding defense of Midway."
----------------------------------------
His family also received a commemoration from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It reads:
In grateful memory of John Monro Butler who died in the service of his country at Midway Islands on 5 JUNE 1943 (Presumed). He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die that freedom might live and grow and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it, he lives -- in a way that humbles the undertakings of most men.
(Signed) Franklin D. Roosevelt,
President of the United States
---------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat was/is the Air Medal.
[Bio #227 composed by Gerry Lawton (GML470). Bio updated 17 Jul 2022.]
Military Hall of Honor #89230
Find A Grave Memorial #56116918
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