EUGENE PROCTOR MADOLE was born 11 July 1920 in Las Vegas, San Miguel, New Mexico. He was the son of John Proctor "Jack" Madole (sometimes called Proctor Madole), Daisy A (Ford) McEachran who probably married sometime after John's return from duty in France in May 1919. Daisy had been married first to Stuart Loren McEachran in 1911. To that union they had two children; Stuart A., and Marguerite.
John and Daisy were also the parents of Elizabeth Lucile Madole. John and Daisy weren't married long before John filed for divorce from Daisy. He made that announcement in the LA Times newspaper on 25 Sept 1924.
Eugene Proctor, who was named after his paternal grandparents, Eugene W Madole and Mattie L Proctor, graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Long Beach, CA in June 1938. While in high school he was active in sports and community service. He played "B" football, 36; varsity baseball 37, 38; varsity football, 37; Big Brother; Recreation. According to the 1940 Long Beach, CA federal census Eugene had completed a year of college and was working as a waiter.
Eugene enlisted in the US Marine Corps Reserve - Class III on 16 Sept 1940 at the Marine Corps Reserve Aviation Unit, Naval Reserve Aviation Base, Long Beach, CA. He was promoted to Private First Class on 17 Sept and assigned to active duty for elimination flight training: designated SNAP (Student Naval Aviation Program/Pilot (?)). Between 17-30 Sept he continued training in SNAP. Still in Long Beach, 1-11 Oct in SNAP, PFC Madole was ordered home on the 12th, relieved of active duty, transfer to 11th Reserve District. On 8 Nov 1940 PFC Madole was discharged to accept appointment as AVNCad, USMCR (AV). The following day, 09 Nov 1940, at the Aviation Unit, 11th Reserve District, MCB, San Diego, CA., PFC Madole accepted appointment as an Aviation Cadet. In April 1941 Aviation Cadet Madole was in training at Pensacola, FL. Madole was a student naval aviator between 1-14 Oct 1941 at the Naval Air Station, Miami, FL. where on 14 Oct 1941 he accepted a commission as a 2d Lt USMCR (AVC) to rank from 04 Aug 1941. Also on the 14th he received his designation as a Naval Aviator effective 16 Sept 1941. On 15 Oct 1941 he was transferred to SMAW, SMD, FMF, Naval Air Station, San Diego, CA. On 12 Feb 1942 2nd Lt Madole was embarked aboard the USS William Ward Burrows (AP-6) as a passenger. Its destination and date of sailing were censored, but they were probably enroute to Midway. Lt Madole was assigned to VMF-221.
Early on the morning of 4 Jun 1942 as a Japanese Striking Force approached Midway, Marine aircraft based on Midway took off to engage an incoming flight of enemy aircraft. VMF-221 achieved a momentary success when they surprised the large formation of Japanese bombers and escorting Zero fighters. The Marine Buffalo fighters were no match for the Zeroes however. Within moments, 2nd Lt Madole's aircraft was shot down. His remains were unrecoverable. He was declared missing in action on 04 Jun 1942. On 05 Jun 1943 he was declared "presumed dead." Lt Madole was awarded the Navy Cross, the Purple Heart and the Presidential Unit Citation.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
See his Arlington National Cemetery Cenotaph here.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Eugene P. MADOLE, 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 Madole aided in 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 Madole 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.
General Orders: Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942
--------------------------------------
VMF-221 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 Eugene Proctor MADOLE who died in the service of his country at Midway Islands on 4 JUNE 1942. 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
-----------------------------------------
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA) - 10 Jan 1943, Sun - p. 10.
Co-Ed's Brother Gets Navy Cross
Lieut. Eugene P. Madole, brother of Lucile Madole, junior student at the University of Redlands, was awarded the navy cross last month "for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty as a pilot in marine fighting squadron." Miss Madole, who is a psychology major and philosophy minor at the university, reports that her brother was recently said to be dead and later was reported missing, but later reports indicate that he is alive somewhere in the Pacific. The citation explained that the cross was granted for delivering a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes in the battle of Midway, which aided in disrupting the plans of the enemy and lessening the effectiveness of their attack, thereby contributing materially to the success of our forces. "He displayed the characteristics of an excellent airman in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States naval service." Miss Madole, who attended Woodrow Wilson High School and Long Beach Junior College before coming to Redlands, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Madole. She is a member of the chorus and the Roger Williams club at school.
------------------------------------------
The Los Angeles Times (Los Angeles, California) - 10 Jan 1943, Sun - p. 12
Marines' Thrilling Score at Midway Told by Navy
All 84 Pilots and Aerial Gunners Decorated for Heroism in Victory Against Great Odds
Washington, Jan 9. (AP) -- Revealing for the first time the thrilling actions fought by Marine Air Force units at the Battle of Midway Island last June, the Navy announced today that all 84 pilots and aerial gunners of those units had been decorated for heroism and that 58 ground crew members had been commended. There were only two marine squadrons at Midway when the Japanese armada came in to attempt conquest of the Hawaiian area, the Navy said. These were Fighting Squadron 221 and Scout Bombing Squadron 241 -- units of Marine Air Group 22. . . [lengthy details of battle omitted] Of the 84 pilots and gunners of the two squadrons, 38 are listed as missing in action and are presumed to be lost, the Navy said. Seventeen others were wounded but most of these have recovered and returned to active service. [battle description omitted] . . . One by one 12 of the original 25 came back. The pilots were weary and the planes were ripped by bullets. Some of them had to crash land on the field; others settled on the sea and patrol boats rescued the pilots. Survivors Wounded. Six of the 12 surviving pilots were wounded, the navy said. "But they were very lucky and they knew it. Two of their comrades had baled (sic) out of falling planes and were machine-gunned by Zero fighters as they dangled helplessly under their parachutes." [additional description of battle] . . . Those Decorated. Among those decorated, their addresses and type of award, were the following Californians: Maj. Kirk Armistead, Coronado, Navy Cross; Lieut. Roy A. Cory (missing), Santa Ana, Navy Cross; Sergt. Carl T.M. Hickman, Santa Barbara, Distinguished Flying Cross; Lieut Eugene P. Madole (missing), Long Beach, Navy Cross; Sergt. Elza Lester Raymond (missing), San Diego, D.F.C.; Lieut. William B. Sandoval (missing), Huntington Park, Navy Cross; Capt. Harold G. Schlendering (wounded), Pasadena, Navy Cross; Lieut. Walter W. Swansberger (missing), Santa Ana, Navy Cross; Staff Sergeant Robert A. Underwood, Los Angeles, D.F.C.; Private First Class Arthur B. Whittington (missing), Pomona, D.F.C.; Maj. Benjamin W. Norris (missing), Coronado, Navy Cross.
[58 recipients of letters of commendation were omitted by this compiler]
---------------------------------------
[Bio #242 composed in Apr 217 by Gerry Lawton (G47/GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor ID #96993
John and Daisy were also the parents of Elizabeth Lucile Madole. John and Daisy weren't married long before John filed for divorce from Daisy. He made that announcement in the LA Times newspaper on 25 Sept 1924.
Eugene Proctor, who was named after his paternal grandparents, Eugene W Madole and Mattie L Proctor, graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Long Beach, CA in June 1938. While in high school he was active in sports and community service. He played "B" football, 36; varsity baseball 37, 38; varsity football, 37; Big Brother; Recreation. According to the 1940 Long Beach, CA federal census Eugene had completed a year of college and was working as a waiter.
Eugene enlisted in the US Marine Corps Reserve - Class III on 16 Sept 1940 at the Marine Corps Reserve Aviation Unit, Naval Reserve Aviation Base, Long Beach, CA. He was promoted to Private First Class on 17 Sept and assigned to active duty for elimination flight training: designated SNAP (Student Naval Aviation Program/Pilot (?)). Between 17-30 Sept he continued training in SNAP. Still in Long Beach, 1-11 Oct in SNAP, PFC Madole was ordered home on the 12th, relieved of active duty, transfer to 11th Reserve District. On 8 Nov 1940 PFC Madole was discharged to accept appointment as AVNCad, USMCR (AV). The following day, 09 Nov 1940, at the Aviation Unit, 11th Reserve District, MCB, San Diego, CA., PFC Madole accepted appointment as an Aviation Cadet. In April 1941 Aviation Cadet Madole was in training at Pensacola, FL. Madole was a student naval aviator between 1-14 Oct 1941 at the Naval Air Station, Miami, FL. where on 14 Oct 1941 he accepted a commission as a 2d Lt USMCR (AVC) to rank from 04 Aug 1941. Also on the 14th he received his designation as a Naval Aviator effective 16 Sept 1941. On 15 Oct 1941 he was transferred to SMAW, SMD, FMF, Naval Air Station, San Diego, CA. On 12 Feb 1942 2nd Lt Madole was embarked aboard the USS William Ward Burrows (AP-6) as a passenger. Its destination and date of sailing were censored, but they were probably enroute to Midway. Lt Madole was assigned to VMF-221.
Early on the morning of 4 Jun 1942 as a Japanese Striking Force approached Midway, Marine aircraft based on Midway took off to engage an incoming flight of enemy aircraft. VMF-221 achieved a momentary success when they surprised the large formation of Japanese bombers and escorting Zero fighters. The Marine Buffalo fighters were no match for the Zeroes however. Within moments, 2nd Lt Madole's aircraft was shot down. His remains were unrecoverable. He was declared missing in action on 04 Jun 1942. On 05 Jun 1943 he was declared "presumed dead." Lt Madole was awarded the Navy Cross, the Purple Heart and the Presidential Unit Citation.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
See his Arlington National Cemetery Cenotaph here.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Eugene P. MADOLE, 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 Madole aided in 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 Madole 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.
General Orders: Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942
--------------------------------------
VMF-221 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 Eugene Proctor MADOLE who died in the service of his country at Midway Islands on 4 JUNE 1942. 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
-----------------------------------------
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA) - 10 Jan 1943, Sun - p. 10.
Co-Ed's Brother Gets Navy Cross
Lieut. Eugene P. Madole, brother of Lucile Madole, junior student at the University of Redlands, was awarded the navy cross last month "for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty as a pilot in marine fighting squadron." Miss Madole, who is a psychology major and philosophy minor at the university, reports that her brother was recently said to be dead and later was reported missing, but later reports indicate that he is alive somewhere in the Pacific. The citation explained that the cross was granted for delivering a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes in the battle of Midway, which aided in disrupting the plans of the enemy and lessening the effectiveness of their attack, thereby contributing materially to the success of our forces. "He displayed the characteristics of an excellent airman in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States naval service." Miss Madole, who attended Woodrow Wilson High School and Long Beach Junior College before coming to Redlands, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Madole. She is a member of the chorus and the Roger Williams club at school.
------------------------------------------
The Los Angeles Times (Los Angeles, California) - 10 Jan 1943, Sun - p. 12
Marines' Thrilling Score at Midway Told by Navy
All 84 Pilots and Aerial Gunners Decorated for Heroism in Victory Against Great Odds
Washington, Jan 9. (AP) -- Revealing for the first time the thrilling actions fought by Marine Air Force units at the Battle of Midway Island last June, the Navy announced today that all 84 pilots and aerial gunners of those units had been decorated for heroism and that 58 ground crew members had been commended. There were only two marine squadrons at Midway when the Japanese armada came in to attempt conquest of the Hawaiian area, the Navy said. These were Fighting Squadron 221 and Scout Bombing Squadron 241 -- units of Marine Air Group 22. . . [lengthy details of battle omitted] Of the 84 pilots and gunners of the two squadrons, 38 are listed as missing in action and are presumed to be lost, the Navy said. Seventeen others were wounded but most of these have recovered and returned to active service. [battle description omitted] . . . One by one 12 of the original 25 came back. The pilots were weary and the planes were ripped by bullets. Some of them had to crash land on the field; others settled on the sea and patrol boats rescued the pilots. Survivors Wounded. Six of the 12 surviving pilots were wounded, the navy said. "But they were very lucky and they knew it. Two of their comrades had baled (sic) out of falling planes and were machine-gunned by Zero fighters as they dangled helplessly under their parachutes." [additional description of battle] . . . Those Decorated. Among those decorated, their addresses and type of award, were the following Californians: Maj. Kirk Armistead, Coronado, Navy Cross; Lieut. Roy A. Cory (missing), Santa Ana, Navy Cross; Sergt. Carl T.M. Hickman, Santa Barbara, Distinguished Flying Cross; Lieut Eugene P. Madole (missing), Long Beach, Navy Cross; Sergt. Elza Lester Raymond (missing), San Diego, D.F.C.; Lieut. William B. Sandoval (missing), Huntington Park, Navy Cross; Capt. Harold G. Schlendering (wounded), Pasadena, Navy Cross; Lieut. Walter W. Swansberger (missing), Santa Ana, Navy Cross; Staff Sergeant Robert A. Underwood, Los Angeles, D.F.C.; Private First Class Arthur B. Whittington (missing), Pomona, D.F.C.; Maj. Benjamin W. Norris (missing), Coronado, Navy Cross.
[58 recipients of letters of commendation were omitted by this compiler]
---------------------------------------
[Bio #242 composed in Apr 217 by Gerry Lawton (G47/GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor ID #96993
EUGENE PROCTOR MADOLE was born 11 July 1920 in Las Vegas, San Miguel, New Mexico. He was the son of John Proctor "Jack" Madole (sometimes called Proctor Madole), Daisy A (Ford) McEachran who probably married sometime after John's return from duty in France in May 1919. Daisy had been married first to Stuart Loren McEachran in 1911. To that union they had two children; Stuart A., and Marguerite.
John and Daisy were also the parents of Elizabeth Lucile Madole. John and Daisy weren't married long before John filed for divorce from Daisy. He made that announcement in the LA Times newspaper on 25 Sept 1924.
Eugene Proctor, who was named after his paternal grandparents, Eugene W Madole and Mattie L Proctor, graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Long Beach, CA in June 1938. While in high school he was active in sports and community service. He played "B" football, 36; varsity baseball 37, 38; varsity football, 37; Big Brother; Recreation. According to the 1940 Long Beach, CA federal census Eugene had completed a year of college and was working as a waiter.
Eugene enlisted in the US Marine Corps Reserve - Class III on 16 Sept 1940 at the Marine Corps Reserve Aviation Unit, Naval Reserve Aviation Base, Long Beach, CA. He was promoted to Private First Class on 17 Sept and assigned to active duty for elimination flight training: designated SNAP (Student Naval Aviation Program/Pilot (?)). Between 17-30 Sept he continued training in SNAP. Still in Long Beach, 1-11 Oct in SNAP, PFC Madole was ordered home on the 12th, relieved of active duty, transfer to 11th Reserve District. On 8 Nov 1940 PFC Madole was discharged to accept appointment as AVNCad, USMCR (AV). The following day, 09 Nov 1940, at the Aviation Unit, 11th Reserve District, MCB, San Diego, CA., PFC Madole accepted appointment as an Aviation Cadet. In April 1941 Aviation Cadet Madole was in training at Pensacola, FL. Madole was a student naval aviator between 1-14 Oct 1941 at the Naval Air Station, Miami, FL. where on 14 Oct 1941 he accepted a commission as a 2d Lt USMCR (AVC) to rank from 04 Aug 1941. Also on the 14th he received his designation as a Naval Aviator effective 16 Sept 1941. On 15 Oct 1941 he was transferred to SMAW, SMD, FMF, Naval Air Station, San Diego, CA. On 12 Feb 1942 2nd Lt Madole was embarked aboard the USS William Ward Burrows (AP-6) as a passenger. Its destination and date of sailing were censored, but they were probably enroute to Midway. Lt Madole was assigned to VMF-221.
Early on the morning of 4 Jun 1942 as a Japanese Striking Force approached Midway, Marine aircraft based on Midway took off to engage an incoming flight of enemy aircraft. VMF-221 achieved a momentary success when they surprised the large formation of Japanese bombers and escorting Zero fighters. The Marine Buffalo fighters were no match for the Zeroes however. Within moments, 2nd Lt Madole's aircraft was shot down. His remains were unrecoverable. He was declared missing in action on 04 Jun 1942. On 05 Jun 1943 he was declared "presumed dead." Lt Madole was awarded the Navy Cross, the Purple Heart and the Presidential Unit Citation.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
See his Arlington National Cemetery Cenotaph here.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Eugene P. MADOLE, 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 Madole aided in 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 Madole 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.
General Orders: Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942
--------------------------------------
VMF-221 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 Eugene Proctor MADOLE who died in the service of his country at Midway Islands on 4 JUNE 1942. 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
-----------------------------------------
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA) - 10 Jan 1943, Sun - p. 10.
Co-Ed's Brother Gets Navy Cross
Lieut. Eugene P. Madole, brother of Lucile Madole, junior student at the University of Redlands, was awarded the navy cross last month "for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty as a pilot in marine fighting squadron." Miss Madole, who is a psychology major and philosophy minor at the university, reports that her brother was recently said to be dead and later was reported missing, but later reports indicate that he is alive somewhere in the Pacific. The citation explained that the cross was granted for delivering a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes in the battle of Midway, which aided in disrupting the plans of the enemy and lessening the effectiveness of their attack, thereby contributing materially to the success of our forces. "He displayed the characteristics of an excellent airman in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States naval service." Miss Madole, who attended Woodrow Wilson High School and Long Beach Junior College before coming to Redlands, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Madole. She is a member of the chorus and the Roger Williams club at school.
------------------------------------------
The Los Angeles Times (Los Angeles, California) - 10 Jan 1943, Sun - p. 12
Marines' Thrilling Score at Midway Told by Navy
All 84 Pilots and Aerial Gunners Decorated for Heroism in Victory Against Great Odds
Washington, Jan 9. (AP) -- Revealing for the first time the thrilling actions fought by Marine Air Force units at the Battle of Midway Island last June, the Navy announced today that all 84 pilots and aerial gunners of those units had been decorated for heroism and that 58 ground crew members had been commended. There were only two marine squadrons at Midway when the Japanese armada came in to attempt conquest of the Hawaiian area, the Navy said. These were Fighting Squadron 221 and Scout Bombing Squadron 241 -- units of Marine Air Group 22. . . [lengthy details of battle omitted] Of the 84 pilots and gunners of the two squadrons, 38 are listed as missing in action and are presumed to be lost, the Navy said. Seventeen others were wounded but most of these have recovered and returned to active service. [battle description omitted] . . . One by one 12 of the original 25 came back. The pilots were weary and the planes were ripped by bullets. Some of them had to crash land on the field; others settled on the sea and patrol boats rescued the pilots. Survivors Wounded. Six of the 12 surviving pilots were wounded, the navy said. "But they were very lucky and they knew it. Two of their comrades had baled (sic) out of falling planes and were machine-gunned by Zero fighters as they dangled helplessly under their parachutes." [additional description of battle] . . . Those Decorated. Among those decorated, their addresses and type of award, were the following Californians: Maj. Kirk Armistead, Coronado, Navy Cross; Lieut. Roy A. Cory (missing), Santa Ana, Navy Cross; Sergt. Carl T.M. Hickman, Santa Barbara, Distinguished Flying Cross; Lieut Eugene P. Madole (missing), Long Beach, Navy Cross; Sergt. Elza Lester Raymond (missing), San Diego, D.F.C.; Lieut. William B. Sandoval (missing), Huntington Park, Navy Cross; Capt. Harold G. Schlendering (wounded), Pasadena, Navy Cross; Lieut. Walter W. Swansberger (missing), Santa Ana, Navy Cross; Staff Sergeant Robert A. Underwood, Los Angeles, D.F.C.; Private First Class Arthur B. Whittington (missing), Pomona, D.F.C.; Maj. Benjamin W. Norris (missing), Coronado, Navy Cross.
[58 recipients of letters of commendation were omitted by this compiler]
---------------------------------------
[Bio #242 composed in Apr 217 by Gerry Lawton (G47/GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor ID #96993
John and Daisy were also the parents of Elizabeth Lucile Madole. John and Daisy weren't married long before John filed for divorce from Daisy. He made that announcement in the LA Times newspaper on 25 Sept 1924.
Eugene Proctor, who was named after his paternal grandparents, Eugene W Madole and Mattie L Proctor, graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Long Beach, CA in June 1938. While in high school he was active in sports and community service. He played "B" football, 36; varsity baseball 37, 38; varsity football, 37; Big Brother; Recreation. According to the 1940 Long Beach, CA federal census Eugene had completed a year of college and was working as a waiter.
Eugene enlisted in the US Marine Corps Reserve - Class III on 16 Sept 1940 at the Marine Corps Reserve Aviation Unit, Naval Reserve Aviation Base, Long Beach, CA. He was promoted to Private First Class on 17 Sept and assigned to active duty for elimination flight training: designated SNAP (Student Naval Aviation Program/Pilot (?)). Between 17-30 Sept he continued training in SNAP. Still in Long Beach, 1-11 Oct in SNAP, PFC Madole was ordered home on the 12th, relieved of active duty, transfer to 11th Reserve District. On 8 Nov 1940 PFC Madole was discharged to accept appointment as AVNCad, USMCR (AV). The following day, 09 Nov 1940, at the Aviation Unit, 11th Reserve District, MCB, San Diego, CA., PFC Madole accepted appointment as an Aviation Cadet. In April 1941 Aviation Cadet Madole was in training at Pensacola, FL. Madole was a student naval aviator between 1-14 Oct 1941 at the Naval Air Station, Miami, FL. where on 14 Oct 1941 he accepted a commission as a 2d Lt USMCR (AVC) to rank from 04 Aug 1941. Also on the 14th he received his designation as a Naval Aviator effective 16 Sept 1941. On 15 Oct 1941 he was transferred to SMAW, SMD, FMF, Naval Air Station, San Diego, CA. On 12 Feb 1942 2nd Lt Madole was embarked aboard the USS William Ward Burrows (AP-6) as a passenger. Its destination and date of sailing were censored, but they were probably enroute to Midway. Lt Madole was assigned to VMF-221.
Early on the morning of 4 Jun 1942 as a Japanese Striking Force approached Midway, Marine aircraft based on Midway took off to engage an incoming flight of enemy aircraft. VMF-221 achieved a momentary success when they surprised the large formation of Japanese bombers and escorting Zero fighters. The Marine Buffalo fighters were no match for the Zeroes however. Within moments, 2nd Lt Madole's aircraft was shot down. His remains were unrecoverable. He was declared missing in action on 04 Jun 1942. On 05 Jun 1943 he was declared "presumed dead." Lt Madole was awarded the Navy Cross, the Purple Heart and the Presidential Unit Citation.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
See his Arlington National Cemetery Cenotaph here.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Eugene P. MADOLE, 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 Madole aided in 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 Madole 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.
General Orders: Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on November 10, 1942
--------------------------------------
VMF-221 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 Eugene Proctor MADOLE who died in the service of his country at Midway Islands on 4 JUNE 1942. 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
-----------------------------------------
The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA) - 10 Jan 1943, Sun - p. 10.
Co-Ed's Brother Gets Navy Cross
Lieut. Eugene P. Madole, brother of Lucile Madole, junior student at the University of Redlands, was awarded the navy cross last month "for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty as a pilot in marine fighting squadron." Miss Madole, who is a psychology major and philosophy minor at the university, reports that her brother was recently said to be dead and later was reported missing, but later reports indicate that he is alive somewhere in the Pacific. The citation explained that the cross was granted for delivering a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes in the battle of Midway, which aided in disrupting the plans of the enemy and lessening the effectiveness of their attack, thereby contributing materially to the success of our forces. "He displayed the characteristics of an excellent airman in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States naval service." Miss Madole, who attended Woodrow Wilson High School and Long Beach Junior College before coming to Redlands, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Madole. She is a member of the chorus and the Roger Williams club at school.
------------------------------------------
The Los Angeles Times (Los Angeles, California) - 10 Jan 1943, Sun - p. 12
Marines' Thrilling Score at Midway Told by Navy
All 84 Pilots and Aerial Gunners Decorated for Heroism in Victory Against Great Odds
Washington, Jan 9. (AP) -- Revealing for the first time the thrilling actions fought by Marine Air Force units at the Battle of Midway Island last June, the Navy announced today that all 84 pilots and aerial gunners of those units had been decorated for heroism and that 58 ground crew members had been commended. There were only two marine squadrons at Midway when the Japanese armada came in to attempt conquest of the Hawaiian area, the Navy said. These were Fighting Squadron 221 and Scout Bombing Squadron 241 -- units of Marine Air Group 22. . . [lengthy details of battle omitted] Of the 84 pilots and gunners of the two squadrons, 38 are listed as missing in action and are presumed to be lost, the Navy said. Seventeen others were wounded but most of these have recovered and returned to active service. [battle description omitted] . . . One by one 12 of the original 25 came back. The pilots were weary and the planes were ripped by bullets. Some of them had to crash land on the field; others settled on the sea and patrol boats rescued the pilots. Survivors Wounded. Six of the 12 surviving pilots were wounded, the navy said. "But they were very lucky and they knew it. Two of their comrades had baled (sic) out of falling planes and were machine-gunned by Zero fighters as they dangled helplessly under their parachutes." [additional description of battle] . . . Those Decorated. Among those decorated, their addresses and type of award, were the following Californians: Maj. Kirk Armistead, Coronado, Navy Cross; Lieut. Roy A. Cory (missing), Santa Ana, Navy Cross; Sergt. Carl T.M. Hickman, Santa Barbara, Distinguished Flying Cross; Lieut Eugene P. Madole (missing), Long Beach, Navy Cross; Sergt. Elza Lester Raymond (missing), San Diego, D.F.C.; Lieut. William B. Sandoval (missing), Huntington Park, Navy Cross; Capt. Harold G. Schlendering (wounded), Pasadena, Navy Cross; Lieut. Walter W. Swansberger (missing), Santa Ana, Navy Cross; Staff Sergeant Robert A. Underwood, Los Angeles, D.F.C.; Private First Class Arthur B. Whittington (missing), Pomona, D.F.C.; Maj. Benjamin W. Norris (missing), Coronado, Navy Cross.
[58 recipients of letters of commendation were omitted by this compiler]
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[Bio #242 composed in Apr 217 by Gerry Lawton (G47/GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor ID #96993
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Entered the service from California.
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