Son of Roy Alvin CORRY Sr 1886 - 1962 and Rosabelle "Rose" HENSON 1880 - 1978
Navy Cross Citation
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry (MCSN: 0-7540), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Squadron Commander and a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-221), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), 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 assault against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Corry shot down one Navy Aichi Type dive bomber and one OO Isento KI Navy Fighter, thereby aiding in the disruption of enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds, contributed materially to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Contributor: BarryC (47806468)
World War II and Korean Conflict Veterans Interred Overseas about Corry
Name: Roy A Corry Jr
Inducted From: California
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Combat Organization: United States Marine Corps
Death Date: 27 Aug 1943
U.S. WWII Military Personnel Missing In Action or Lost At Sea, 1941-1946 about Roy Alvinjr Corry
Name: Roy Alvinjr Corry
Date of Loss: 26 Aug 1942 0
Branch: U.S. Marine Corps Reserves
Rank: 2 LT
Service Number: O7540
Status: Missing in Action
Monument: Fort William Mckinley, Manila, the Philippines
Last Known Status: Missing
U.S. Awards: Purple Heart Medal∼Roy Alvin Jr, was a son of Roy Alvin Corry and Roseabelle "Rose" Henson who married on 16 Jun 1912 in Garfield, Oklahoma, OK. Roy Jr's siblings were June Janice, and Bettegene Corry. On 08 Aug 1940, Mrs. Roseabelle Corry filed for divorce from Roy Corry. Roy J., was engaged to Ethel Freda Reichardt of San Diego.
Roy Jr. graduated from Santa Ana High School in June 1938. He attended Santa Ana Junior College where he completed primary aviation classes. He completed advanced aviation training at Compton Junior College in Compton, CA. Roy was assigned to active duty on 13 April 1941. On 17 April, he accepted appointment as an aviation cadet with a date of rank of 02 April 1941. He began his formal flight instruction at NAS Jacksonville, FL on 17 April 1941 with cadet class 4B-41-J (4th month April, 2nd Class of Apr, 1941, Jacksonville). He continued his flight training throughout the spring, summer and into early fall 1941 when he was sent to NAS, Miami for more advanced training. On 14 Oct 1941, Aviation Cadet Corry completed his aviation training NAS Miami where he accepted his commission as a Second Lieutenant, USMCR (AVC). His date of rank was 10 Sep 1941. On the same day, he received his designation as a Naval Aviator (NA) effective from 16 Sep 1941. He was naval aviator #8891.
On 15 Oct, he was transferred to the Second Marine Air Wing, Second Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, Naval Air Station (NAS), San Diego, CA. After additional training in San Diego, Corry transferred from San Diego via the USS President Hayes (APA-20) on 25 Jan 1942 to Headquarters, MAG-21, 2d MAW on Ewa, Oahu, T.H. for duty. He detached on 24 Mar 1942 from HQ, MAG-21, 2nd MAW, Ewa, Oahu, T.H. a sailed to Midway on board the USS Curtiss (AV-4). He reported for duty to Marine Air Group 22 on Midway on 28 March 1942. Accompanying 2d Lt Corry were 2d Lt's Robert J. "R" Bear, John M. Butler, Bruce H. Ek, Charles M. Kunz, Ellwood Q. Lindsay, John C. Musselman and Albert W. Tweedy - all USMCR pilots.
On 11 April, Corry was assigned to Marine Fighting Squadron - 221 along with 2d Lt's Ellwood Q. Lindsay, David W. Pinkerton, Jr., Walter W. Swansberger(sic) and Philip R. White, Jr. In the early morning hours of 04 Jun 1942, Lt Corry and Capt Francis McCarthy took off from NAS Midway for morning patrol. Because of low fuel states, both aircraft returned to Midway only to find the Island under attack by Japanese aircraft. Without enough fuel to engage the enemy, Corry and McCarthy landed and attempted to refuel. With less than a full tank of fuel both aircraft took off again and attempted to join with their squadron, but instead they were engaged by a formidable number of enemy fighters. During the engagement Lt Corry shot down two Japanese aircraft before having to retire while still under attack. Capt. McCarthy was never seen again.
After the battle of Midway Lt Corry who was attached to VMF-221 was temporarily assigned to HQSQ-21, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. He was transferred on 06 July from VMF-221 to a new squadron, VMF-223, MAG-23, located on Ewa, Oahu, T.H. His collateral duties included Ordnance and Gunnery Officer responsibilities. Between 21-25 July he was assigned temporary additional duty to ferry aircraft to MAS, Palmyra. On the 21st he embarked USS Long Island (AVG-1 at the time) at the navy yard at Pearl Harbor and arrived at Palmyra Island on the 25th. On the 26th of July he departed Palmyra via aircraft and arrived at Ewa, Oahu on the same date.
The following month Corry again found himself on board the USS Long Island bound for Henderson Field on Guadalcanal with a shipment of F4F and Dauntless Dive bombers. On 20 Aug the squadron took off from the Long Island and after about an hour's flight they touched down at Henderson Field. After delivering the aircraft to Henderson field Corry and other marines who had now joined the "Cactus Air Force" began conducting daily combat patrols. On the morning of 26 Aug 1942, twelve Wildcats made their way to intercept a large force of Japanese aircraft. During the ensuing melee the Marines accounted for 13 enemy aircraft downed with a loss of just one of their own. Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry was missing in action. His remains were unrecoverable. He was declared presumed dead on 27 Aug 1943.
2nd Lt Corry was awarded (Posthumously) the Navy Cross and the Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon (both Battle of Midway). He was awarded (posthumously) the Purple Heart, the American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two bronze battle stars and the World War II Victory Medal.
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Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) - 03 Feb 1940, Sat - p. 3
Air Classes Hit By Steady Rains
Heavy county rains brought Santa Ana Junior college aviation classes to a halt today as Martin airport officials reported that five of 30 student pilots have completed their solo flight after eight hours of instruction. They are H.Q. Bolton, Roy CORRY, George Griffith, E.R. Julian and Laurence Dresser. Anita Potter and Florence Longsdorff, only feminine enrollees for the air course have completed three and one-half and two hours of flight work respectively, Flight Instructor Floyd Martin stated. Additional solo work will commence immediately following cessation of local precipitation, it was indicated.
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Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) - 11 April 1941, Fri - p. 15
S.A. Youths Sign for Air Training
Two former Santa Ana Junior college students will leave tomorrow evening at 8 o'clock for Jacksonville, Fla., to begin training as cadets in the Marine Flying Corps. The young men are Walter Swanberger jr., 21, and Roy Corry, 20, who received notification Wednesday that they had been accepted for the service. The duo will leave by train accompanied by several other Southern California youths who also are to enter the training. Swanberger completed his preliminary flight training under the Civilian Pilot Training course at the local college, and attended ground school at the University of Southern California. He took advanced work at Vail field, Los Angeles. The son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Swanberger, of 1137 South Van Ness, Swanberger attended Santa Ana High school where he was active in student affairs. He also served as a student officer at junior college here. Corry is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy A. Cory, of 2600 West First street. He completed his primary flight training at Santa Ana Junior college, and took his advanced work at Compton.
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Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) – 24 Jun 1942, Wed – p. 1
Santa Ana Marine Corps Flier Credited With Downing Two Jap Airplanes In Battle of Midway
A story of the heroism of Marine pilots based on Midway Island was told today by Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry, Santa Ana pilot, by means of the United Press from a Marine base, somewhere in Hawaii.
On Patrol
In his account, Corry said he and Captain Francis P. McCarthy of Newton, Mass., had been on patrol and had just landed and refueled, when the attack started. "We go up about 8000 feet when we ran into a rat race, " he related. "We were circling with about eight Jap planes. McCarthy was about four planes ahead of me. He got two Japs and I got one of those behind him. Then McCarthy dived on several Japs below us; I turned out the other way. I couldn't get rid of the Japs on my tail, but I dived on a dive bomber below with the Japs still riding me. But I got the dive bomber.
Still Followed "I was up about 15 minutes trying to get back to the island. When I got back they still were following me. I made a quick circle and came in with the Japs still following me. One was shot down by a ground gun. My plane had about 60 holes in it." . . .
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Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) – 28 Sep 1942, Mon – p. 1
Lt. Roy Corry Listed Missing
After successfully weathering the battle of Midway in which he was officially credited with downing two Japanese planes, Second Lieut. Roy A Corry, 21 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy A. Corry, 2600 West First street, is listed as missing in action.
Received Telegram
Mr. and Mrs. Corry received notification concerning their son Saturday afternoon from the Navy department. Lieutenant Corry is the second member of his squadron from Santa Ana to be listed as missing. A fellow townsman and pilot, Lieutenant Walter Swanberger, had previously been reported missing following the Midway battle. It was in April of this year that Lieutenant Corry found it was a small world after all when shortly after being stationed on Midway island, he discovered another Santa Ana man in his same squadron, Marion E. Carl, who since has been promoted to the rank of Captain and is the group's leader. In the same outfit also was Walter Swanberger.
Attended J.C. Here
Lieutenant Corry attended Santa Ana Junior college where he took pilot training, later attending Compton Junior college where he finished his advanced flight training. He took his Marine Corps training at Jacksonville, FL, along with Lieutenant Swanberger, and was sent to Midway in January of this year.
--------------------------------------
Navy Cross Citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Roy A. Corry, Second Lieutenant, United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Squadron Commander and 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 assault against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Corry shot down one Navy Aichi Type dive bomber and one OO Isento KI Navy Fighter, thereby aiding in the disruption of enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds, contributed materially to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
-------------------------------------
Presidential Unit Citation reads:
Marine Air Group 22 Presidential Unit Citation reads:
"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 Roy A. Corry, Jr., who died in the service of his country at SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED MARINE AIR GROUP TWENTY THREE, 27 August 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
-----------------------------------
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 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]]
-------------------------------------
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 #237 composed by Gerry Lawton (GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor #131334
Navy Cross Citation
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry (MCSN: 0-7540), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Squadron Commander and a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-221), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), 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 assault against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Corry shot down one Navy Aichi Type dive bomber and one OO Isento KI Navy Fighter, thereby aiding in the disruption of enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds, contributed materially to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Contributor: BarryC (47806468)
World War II and Korean Conflict Veterans Interred Overseas about Corry
Name: Roy A Corry Jr
Inducted From: California
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Combat Organization: United States Marine Corps
Death Date: 27 Aug 1943
U.S. WWII Military Personnel Missing In Action or Lost At Sea, 1941-1946 about Roy Alvinjr Corry
Name: Roy Alvinjr Corry
Date of Loss: 26 Aug 1942 0
Branch: U.S. Marine Corps Reserves
Rank: 2 LT
Service Number: O7540
Status: Missing in Action
Monument: Fort William Mckinley, Manila, the Philippines
Last Known Status: Missing
U.S. Awards: Purple Heart Medal∼Roy Alvin Jr, was a son of Roy Alvin Corry and Roseabelle "Rose" Henson who married on 16 Jun 1912 in Garfield, Oklahoma, OK. Roy Jr's siblings were June Janice, and Bettegene Corry. On 08 Aug 1940, Mrs. Roseabelle Corry filed for divorce from Roy Corry. Roy J., was engaged to Ethel Freda Reichardt of San Diego.
Roy Jr. graduated from Santa Ana High School in June 1938. He attended Santa Ana Junior College where he completed primary aviation classes. He completed advanced aviation training at Compton Junior College in Compton, CA. Roy was assigned to active duty on 13 April 1941. On 17 April, he accepted appointment as an aviation cadet with a date of rank of 02 April 1941. He began his formal flight instruction at NAS Jacksonville, FL on 17 April 1941 with cadet class 4B-41-J (4th month April, 2nd Class of Apr, 1941, Jacksonville). He continued his flight training throughout the spring, summer and into early fall 1941 when he was sent to NAS, Miami for more advanced training. On 14 Oct 1941, Aviation Cadet Corry completed his aviation training NAS Miami where he accepted his commission as a Second Lieutenant, USMCR (AVC). His date of rank was 10 Sep 1941. On the same day, he received his designation as a Naval Aviator (NA) effective from 16 Sep 1941. He was naval aviator #8891.
On 15 Oct, he was transferred to the Second Marine Air Wing, Second Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, Naval Air Station (NAS), San Diego, CA. After additional training in San Diego, Corry transferred from San Diego via the USS President Hayes (APA-20) on 25 Jan 1942 to Headquarters, MAG-21, 2d MAW on Ewa, Oahu, T.H. for duty. He detached on 24 Mar 1942 from HQ, MAG-21, 2nd MAW, Ewa, Oahu, T.H. a sailed to Midway on board the USS Curtiss (AV-4). He reported for duty to Marine Air Group 22 on Midway on 28 March 1942. Accompanying 2d Lt Corry were 2d Lt's Robert J. "R" Bear, John M. Butler, Bruce H. Ek, Charles M. Kunz, Ellwood Q. Lindsay, John C. Musselman and Albert W. Tweedy - all USMCR pilots.
On 11 April, Corry was assigned to Marine Fighting Squadron - 221 along with 2d Lt's Ellwood Q. Lindsay, David W. Pinkerton, Jr., Walter W. Swansberger(sic) and Philip R. White, Jr. In the early morning hours of 04 Jun 1942, Lt Corry and Capt Francis McCarthy took off from NAS Midway for morning patrol. Because of low fuel states, both aircraft returned to Midway only to find the Island under attack by Japanese aircraft. Without enough fuel to engage the enemy, Corry and McCarthy landed and attempted to refuel. With less than a full tank of fuel both aircraft took off again and attempted to join with their squadron, but instead they were engaged by a formidable number of enemy fighters. During the engagement Lt Corry shot down two Japanese aircraft before having to retire while still under attack. Capt. McCarthy was never seen again.
After the battle of Midway Lt Corry who was attached to VMF-221 was temporarily assigned to HQSQ-21, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. He was transferred on 06 July from VMF-221 to a new squadron, VMF-223, MAG-23, located on Ewa, Oahu, T.H. His collateral duties included Ordnance and Gunnery Officer responsibilities. Between 21-25 July he was assigned temporary additional duty to ferry aircraft to MAS, Palmyra. On the 21st he embarked USS Long Island (AVG-1 at the time) at the navy yard at Pearl Harbor and arrived at Palmyra Island on the 25th. On the 26th of July he departed Palmyra via aircraft and arrived at Ewa, Oahu on the same date.
The following month Corry again found himself on board the USS Long Island bound for Henderson Field on Guadalcanal with a shipment of F4F and Dauntless Dive bombers. On 20 Aug the squadron took off from the Long Island and after about an hour's flight they touched down at Henderson Field. After delivering the aircraft to Henderson field Corry and other marines who had now joined the "Cactus Air Force" began conducting daily combat patrols. On the morning of 26 Aug 1942, twelve Wildcats made their way to intercept a large force of Japanese aircraft. During the ensuing melee the Marines accounted for 13 enemy aircraft downed with a loss of just one of their own. Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry was missing in action. His remains were unrecoverable. He was declared presumed dead on 27 Aug 1943.
2nd Lt Corry was awarded (Posthumously) the Navy Cross and the Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon (both Battle of Midway). He was awarded (posthumously) the Purple Heart, the American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two bronze battle stars and the World War II Victory Medal.
----------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) - 03 Feb 1940, Sat - p. 3
Air Classes Hit By Steady Rains
Heavy county rains brought Santa Ana Junior college aviation classes to a halt today as Martin airport officials reported that five of 30 student pilots have completed their solo flight after eight hours of instruction. They are H.Q. Bolton, Roy CORRY, George Griffith, E.R. Julian and Laurence Dresser. Anita Potter and Florence Longsdorff, only feminine enrollees for the air course have completed three and one-half and two hours of flight work respectively, Flight Instructor Floyd Martin stated. Additional solo work will commence immediately following cessation of local precipitation, it was indicated.
------------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) - 11 April 1941, Fri - p. 15
S.A. Youths Sign for Air Training
Two former Santa Ana Junior college students will leave tomorrow evening at 8 o'clock for Jacksonville, Fla., to begin training as cadets in the Marine Flying Corps. The young men are Walter Swanberger jr., 21, and Roy Corry, 20, who received notification Wednesday that they had been accepted for the service. The duo will leave by train accompanied by several other Southern California youths who also are to enter the training. Swanberger completed his preliminary flight training under the Civilian Pilot Training course at the local college, and attended ground school at the University of Southern California. He took advanced work at Vail field, Los Angeles. The son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Swanberger, of 1137 South Van Ness, Swanberger attended Santa Ana High school where he was active in student affairs. He also served as a student officer at junior college here. Corry is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy A. Cory, of 2600 West First street. He completed his primary flight training at Santa Ana Junior college, and took his advanced work at Compton.
--------------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) – 24 Jun 1942, Wed – p. 1
Santa Ana Marine Corps Flier Credited With Downing Two Jap Airplanes In Battle of Midway
A story of the heroism of Marine pilots based on Midway Island was told today by Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry, Santa Ana pilot, by means of the United Press from a Marine base, somewhere in Hawaii.
On Patrol
In his account, Corry said he and Captain Francis P. McCarthy of Newton, Mass., had been on patrol and had just landed and refueled, when the attack started. "We go up about 8000 feet when we ran into a rat race, " he related. "We were circling with about eight Jap planes. McCarthy was about four planes ahead of me. He got two Japs and I got one of those behind him. Then McCarthy dived on several Japs below us; I turned out the other way. I couldn't get rid of the Japs on my tail, but I dived on a dive bomber below with the Japs still riding me. But I got the dive bomber.
Still Followed "I was up about 15 minutes trying to get back to the island. When I got back they still were following me. I made a quick circle and came in with the Japs still following me. One was shot down by a ground gun. My plane had about 60 holes in it." . . .
-------------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) – 28 Sep 1942, Mon – p. 1
Lt. Roy Corry Listed Missing
After successfully weathering the battle of Midway in which he was officially credited with downing two Japanese planes, Second Lieut. Roy A Corry, 21 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy A. Corry, 2600 West First street, is listed as missing in action.
Received Telegram
Mr. and Mrs. Corry received notification concerning their son Saturday afternoon from the Navy department. Lieutenant Corry is the second member of his squadron from Santa Ana to be listed as missing. A fellow townsman and pilot, Lieutenant Walter Swanberger, had previously been reported missing following the Midway battle. It was in April of this year that Lieutenant Corry found it was a small world after all when shortly after being stationed on Midway island, he discovered another Santa Ana man in his same squadron, Marion E. Carl, who since has been promoted to the rank of Captain and is the group's leader. In the same outfit also was Walter Swanberger.
Attended J.C. Here
Lieutenant Corry attended Santa Ana Junior college where he took pilot training, later attending Compton Junior college where he finished his advanced flight training. He took his Marine Corps training at Jacksonville, FL, along with Lieutenant Swanberger, and was sent to Midway in January of this year.
--------------------------------------
Navy Cross Citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Roy A. Corry, Second Lieutenant, United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Squadron Commander and 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 assault against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Corry shot down one Navy Aichi Type dive bomber and one OO Isento KI Navy Fighter, thereby aiding in the disruption of enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds, contributed materially to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
-------------------------------------
Presidential Unit Citation reads:
Marine Air Group 22 Presidential Unit Citation reads:
"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 Roy A. Corry, Jr., who died in the service of his country at SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED MARINE AIR GROUP TWENTY THREE, 27 August 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
-----------------------------------
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 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]]
-------------------------------------
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 #237 composed by Gerry Lawton (GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor #131334
Son of Roy Alvin CORRY Sr 1886 - 1962 and Rosabelle "Rose" HENSON 1880 - 1978
Navy Cross Citation
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry (MCSN: 0-7540), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Squadron Commander and a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-221), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), 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 assault against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Corry shot down one Navy Aichi Type dive bomber and one OO Isento KI Navy Fighter, thereby aiding in the disruption of enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds, contributed materially to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Contributor: BarryC (47806468)
World War II and Korean Conflict Veterans Interred Overseas about Corry
Name: Roy A Corry Jr
Inducted From: California
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Combat Organization: United States Marine Corps
Death Date: 27 Aug 1943
U.S. WWII Military Personnel Missing In Action or Lost At Sea, 1941-1946 about Roy Alvinjr Corry
Name: Roy Alvinjr Corry
Date of Loss: 26 Aug 1942 0
Branch: U.S. Marine Corps Reserves
Rank: 2 LT
Service Number: O7540
Status: Missing in Action
Monument: Fort William Mckinley, Manila, the Philippines
Last Known Status: Missing
U.S. Awards: Purple Heart Medal∼Roy Alvin Jr, was a son of Roy Alvin Corry and Roseabelle "Rose" Henson who married on 16 Jun 1912 in Garfield, Oklahoma, OK. Roy Jr's siblings were June Janice, and Bettegene Corry. On 08 Aug 1940, Mrs. Roseabelle Corry filed for divorce from Roy Corry. Roy J., was engaged to Ethel Freda Reichardt of San Diego.
Roy Jr. graduated from Santa Ana High School in June 1938. He attended Santa Ana Junior College where he completed primary aviation classes. He completed advanced aviation training at Compton Junior College in Compton, CA. Roy was assigned to active duty on 13 April 1941. On 17 April, he accepted appointment as an aviation cadet with a date of rank of 02 April 1941. He began his formal flight instruction at NAS Jacksonville, FL on 17 April 1941 with cadet class 4B-41-J (4th month April, 2nd Class of Apr, 1941, Jacksonville). He continued his flight training throughout the spring, summer and into early fall 1941 when he was sent to NAS, Miami for more advanced training. On 14 Oct 1941, Aviation Cadet Corry completed his aviation training NAS Miami where he accepted his commission as a Second Lieutenant, USMCR (AVC). His date of rank was 10 Sep 1941. On the same day, he received his designation as a Naval Aviator (NA) effective from 16 Sep 1941. He was naval aviator #8891.
On 15 Oct, he was transferred to the Second Marine Air Wing, Second Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, Naval Air Station (NAS), San Diego, CA. After additional training in San Diego, Corry transferred from San Diego via the USS President Hayes (APA-20) on 25 Jan 1942 to Headquarters, MAG-21, 2d MAW on Ewa, Oahu, T.H. for duty. He detached on 24 Mar 1942 from HQ, MAG-21, 2nd MAW, Ewa, Oahu, T.H. a sailed to Midway on board the USS Curtiss (AV-4). He reported for duty to Marine Air Group 22 on Midway on 28 March 1942. Accompanying 2d Lt Corry were 2d Lt's Robert J. "R" Bear, John M. Butler, Bruce H. Ek, Charles M. Kunz, Ellwood Q. Lindsay, John C. Musselman and Albert W. Tweedy - all USMCR pilots.
On 11 April, Corry was assigned to Marine Fighting Squadron - 221 along with 2d Lt's Ellwood Q. Lindsay, David W. Pinkerton, Jr., Walter W. Swansberger(sic) and Philip R. White, Jr. In the early morning hours of 04 Jun 1942, Lt Corry and Capt Francis McCarthy took off from NAS Midway for morning patrol. Because of low fuel states, both aircraft returned to Midway only to find the Island under attack by Japanese aircraft. Without enough fuel to engage the enemy, Corry and McCarthy landed and attempted to refuel. With less than a full tank of fuel both aircraft took off again and attempted to join with their squadron, but instead they were engaged by a formidable number of enemy fighters. During the engagement Lt Corry shot down two Japanese aircraft before having to retire while still under attack. Capt. McCarthy was never seen again.
After the battle of Midway Lt Corry who was attached to VMF-221 was temporarily assigned to HQSQ-21, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. He was transferred on 06 July from VMF-221 to a new squadron, VMF-223, MAG-23, located on Ewa, Oahu, T.H. His collateral duties included Ordnance and Gunnery Officer responsibilities. Between 21-25 July he was assigned temporary additional duty to ferry aircraft to MAS, Palmyra. On the 21st he embarked USS Long Island (AVG-1 at the time) at the navy yard at Pearl Harbor and arrived at Palmyra Island on the 25th. On the 26th of July he departed Palmyra via aircraft and arrived at Ewa, Oahu on the same date.
The following month Corry again found himself on board the USS Long Island bound for Henderson Field on Guadalcanal with a shipment of F4F and Dauntless Dive bombers. On 20 Aug the squadron took off from the Long Island and after about an hour's flight they touched down at Henderson Field. After delivering the aircraft to Henderson field Corry and other marines who had now joined the "Cactus Air Force" began conducting daily combat patrols. On the morning of 26 Aug 1942, twelve Wildcats made their way to intercept a large force of Japanese aircraft. During the ensuing melee the Marines accounted for 13 enemy aircraft downed with a loss of just one of their own. Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry was missing in action. His remains were unrecoverable. He was declared presumed dead on 27 Aug 1943.
2nd Lt Corry was awarded (Posthumously) the Navy Cross and the Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon (both Battle of Midway). He was awarded (posthumously) the Purple Heart, the American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two bronze battle stars and the World War II Victory Medal.
----------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) - 03 Feb 1940, Sat - p. 3
Air Classes Hit By Steady Rains
Heavy county rains brought Santa Ana Junior college aviation classes to a halt today as Martin airport officials reported that five of 30 student pilots have completed their solo flight after eight hours of instruction. They are H.Q. Bolton, Roy CORRY, George Griffith, E.R. Julian and Laurence Dresser. Anita Potter and Florence Longsdorff, only feminine enrollees for the air course have completed three and one-half and two hours of flight work respectively, Flight Instructor Floyd Martin stated. Additional solo work will commence immediately following cessation of local precipitation, it was indicated.
------------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) - 11 April 1941, Fri - p. 15
S.A. Youths Sign for Air Training
Two former Santa Ana Junior college students will leave tomorrow evening at 8 o'clock for Jacksonville, Fla., to begin training as cadets in the Marine Flying Corps. The young men are Walter Swanberger jr., 21, and Roy Corry, 20, who received notification Wednesday that they had been accepted for the service. The duo will leave by train accompanied by several other Southern California youths who also are to enter the training. Swanberger completed his preliminary flight training under the Civilian Pilot Training course at the local college, and attended ground school at the University of Southern California. He took advanced work at Vail field, Los Angeles. The son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Swanberger, of 1137 South Van Ness, Swanberger attended Santa Ana High school where he was active in student affairs. He also served as a student officer at junior college here. Corry is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy A. Cory, of 2600 West First street. He completed his primary flight training at Santa Ana Junior college, and took his advanced work at Compton.
--------------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) – 24 Jun 1942, Wed – p. 1
Santa Ana Marine Corps Flier Credited With Downing Two Jap Airplanes In Battle of Midway
A story of the heroism of Marine pilots based on Midway Island was told today by Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry, Santa Ana pilot, by means of the United Press from a Marine base, somewhere in Hawaii.
On Patrol
In his account, Corry said he and Captain Francis P. McCarthy of Newton, Mass., had been on patrol and had just landed and refueled, when the attack started. "We go up about 8000 feet when we ran into a rat race, " he related. "We were circling with about eight Jap planes. McCarthy was about four planes ahead of me. He got two Japs and I got one of those behind him. Then McCarthy dived on several Japs below us; I turned out the other way. I couldn't get rid of the Japs on my tail, but I dived on a dive bomber below with the Japs still riding me. But I got the dive bomber.
Still Followed "I was up about 15 minutes trying to get back to the island. When I got back they still were following me. I made a quick circle and came in with the Japs still following me. One was shot down by a ground gun. My plane had about 60 holes in it." . . .
-------------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) – 28 Sep 1942, Mon – p. 1
Lt. Roy Corry Listed Missing
After successfully weathering the battle of Midway in which he was officially credited with downing two Japanese planes, Second Lieut. Roy A Corry, 21 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy A. Corry, 2600 West First street, is listed as missing in action.
Received Telegram
Mr. and Mrs. Corry received notification concerning their son Saturday afternoon from the Navy department. Lieutenant Corry is the second member of his squadron from Santa Ana to be listed as missing. A fellow townsman and pilot, Lieutenant Walter Swanberger, had previously been reported missing following the Midway battle. It was in April of this year that Lieutenant Corry found it was a small world after all when shortly after being stationed on Midway island, he discovered another Santa Ana man in his same squadron, Marion E. Carl, who since has been promoted to the rank of Captain and is the group's leader. In the same outfit also was Walter Swanberger.
Attended J.C. Here
Lieutenant Corry attended Santa Ana Junior college where he took pilot training, later attending Compton Junior college where he finished his advanced flight training. He took his Marine Corps training at Jacksonville, FL, along with Lieutenant Swanberger, and was sent to Midway in January of this year.
--------------------------------------
Navy Cross Citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Roy A. Corry, Second Lieutenant, United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Squadron Commander and 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 assault against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Corry shot down one Navy Aichi Type dive bomber and one OO Isento KI Navy Fighter, thereby aiding in the disruption of enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds, contributed materially to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
-------------------------------------
Presidential Unit Citation reads:
Marine Air Group 22 Presidential Unit Citation reads:
"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 Roy A. Corry, Jr., who died in the service of his country at SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED MARINE AIR GROUP TWENTY THREE, 27 August 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
-----------------------------------
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 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]]
-------------------------------------
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 #237 composed by Gerry Lawton (GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor #131334
Navy Cross Citation
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry (MCSN: 0-7540), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Squadron Commander and a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-221), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), 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 assault against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Corry shot down one Navy Aichi Type dive bomber and one OO Isento KI Navy Fighter, thereby aiding in the disruption of enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds, contributed materially to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Contributor: BarryC (47806468)
World War II and Korean Conflict Veterans Interred Overseas about Corry
Name: Roy A Corry Jr
Inducted From: California
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Combat Organization: United States Marine Corps
Death Date: 27 Aug 1943
U.S. WWII Military Personnel Missing In Action or Lost At Sea, 1941-1946 about Roy Alvinjr Corry
Name: Roy Alvinjr Corry
Date of Loss: 26 Aug 1942 0
Branch: U.S. Marine Corps Reserves
Rank: 2 LT
Service Number: O7540
Status: Missing in Action
Monument: Fort William Mckinley, Manila, the Philippines
Last Known Status: Missing
U.S. Awards: Purple Heart Medal∼Roy Alvin Jr, was a son of Roy Alvin Corry and Roseabelle "Rose" Henson who married on 16 Jun 1912 in Garfield, Oklahoma, OK. Roy Jr's siblings were June Janice, and Bettegene Corry. On 08 Aug 1940, Mrs. Roseabelle Corry filed for divorce from Roy Corry. Roy J., was engaged to Ethel Freda Reichardt of San Diego.
Roy Jr. graduated from Santa Ana High School in June 1938. He attended Santa Ana Junior College where he completed primary aviation classes. He completed advanced aviation training at Compton Junior College in Compton, CA. Roy was assigned to active duty on 13 April 1941. On 17 April, he accepted appointment as an aviation cadet with a date of rank of 02 April 1941. He began his formal flight instruction at NAS Jacksonville, FL on 17 April 1941 with cadet class 4B-41-J (4th month April, 2nd Class of Apr, 1941, Jacksonville). He continued his flight training throughout the spring, summer and into early fall 1941 when he was sent to NAS, Miami for more advanced training. On 14 Oct 1941, Aviation Cadet Corry completed his aviation training NAS Miami where he accepted his commission as a Second Lieutenant, USMCR (AVC). His date of rank was 10 Sep 1941. On the same day, he received his designation as a Naval Aviator (NA) effective from 16 Sep 1941. He was naval aviator #8891.
On 15 Oct, he was transferred to the Second Marine Air Wing, Second Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, Naval Air Station (NAS), San Diego, CA. After additional training in San Diego, Corry transferred from San Diego via the USS President Hayes (APA-20) on 25 Jan 1942 to Headquarters, MAG-21, 2d MAW on Ewa, Oahu, T.H. for duty. He detached on 24 Mar 1942 from HQ, MAG-21, 2nd MAW, Ewa, Oahu, T.H. a sailed to Midway on board the USS Curtiss (AV-4). He reported for duty to Marine Air Group 22 on Midway on 28 March 1942. Accompanying 2d Lt Corry were 2d Lt's Robert J. "R" Bear, John M. Butler, Bruce H. Ek, Charles M. Kunz, Ellwood Q. Lindsay, John C. Musselman and Albert W. Tweedy - all USMCR pilots.
On 11 April, Corry was assigned to Marine Fighting Squadron - 221 along with 2d Lt's Ellwood Q. Lindsay, David W. Pinkerton, Jr., Walter W. Swansberger(sic) and Philip R. White, Jr. In the early morning hours of 04 Jun 1942, Lt Corry and Capt Francis McCarthy took off from NAS Midway for morning patrol. Because of low fuel states, both aircraft returned to Midway only to find the Island under attack by Japanese aircraft. Without enough fuel to engage the enemy, Corry and McCarthy landed and attempted to refuel. With less than a full tank of fuel both aircraft took off again and attempted to join with their squadron, but instead they were engaged by a formidable number of enemy fighters. During the engagement Lt Corry shot down two Japanese aircraft before having to retire while still under attack. Capt. McCarthy was never seen again.
After the battle of Midway Lt Corry who was attached to VMF-221 was temporarily assigned to HQSQ-21, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. He was transferred on 06 July from VMF-221 to a new squadron, VMF-223, MAG-23, located on Ewa, Oahu, T.H. His collateral duties included Ordnance and Gunnery Officer responsibilities. Between 21-25 July he was assigned temporary additional duty to ferry aircraft to MAS, Palmyra. On the 21st he embarked USS Long Island (AVG-1 at the time) at the navy yard at Pearl Harbor and arrived at Palmyra Island on the 25th. On the 26th of July he departed Palmyra via aircraft and arrived at Ewa, Oahu on the same date.
The following month Corry again found himself on board the USS Long Island bound for Henderson Field on Guadalcanal with a shipment of F4F and Dauntless Dive bombers. On 20 Aug the squadron took off from the Long Island and after about an hour's flight they touched down at Henderson Field. After delivering the aircraft to Henderson field Corry and other marines who had now joined the "Cactus Air Force" began conducting daily combat patrols. On the morning of 26 Aug 1942, twelve Wildcats made their way to intercept a large force of Japanese aircraft. During the ensuing melee the Marines accounted for 13 enemy aircraft downed with a loss of just one of their own. Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry was missing in action. His remains were unrecoverable. He was declared presumed dead on 27 Aug 1943.
2nd Lt Corry was awarded (Posthumously) the Navy Cross and the Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon (both Battle of Midway). He was awarded (posthumously) the Purple Heart, the American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two bronze battle stars and the World War II Victory Medal.
----------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) - 03 Feb 1940, Sat - p. 3
Air Classes Hit By Steady Rains
Heavy county rains brought Santa Ana Junior college aviation classes to a halt today as Martin airport officials reported that five of 30 student pilots have completed their solo flight after eight hours of instruction. They are H.Q. Bolton, Roy CORRY, George Griffith, E.R. Julian and Laurence Dresser. Anita Potter and Florence Longsdorff, only feminine enrollees for the air course have completed three and one-half and two hours of flight work respectively, Flight Instructor Floyd Martin stated. Additional solo work will commence immediately following cessation of local precipitation, it was indicated.
------------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) - 11 April 1941, Fri - p. 15
S.A. Youths Sign for Air Training
Two former Santa Ana Junior college students will leave tomorrow evening at 8 o'clock for Jacksonville, Fla., to begin training as cadets in the Marine Flying Corps. The young men are Walter Swanberger jr., 21, and Roy Corry, 20, who received notification Wednesday that they had been accepted for the service. The duo will leave by train accompanied by several other Southern California youths who also are to enter the training. Swanberger completed his preliminary flight training under the Civilian Pilot Training course at the local college, and attended ground school at the University of Southern California. He took advanced work at Vail field, Los Angeles. The son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Swanberger, of 1137 South Van Ness, Swanberger attended Santa Ana High school where he was active in student affairs. He also served as a student officer at junior college here. Corry is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy A. Cory, of 2600 West First street. He completed his primary flight training at Santa Ana Junior college, and took his advanced work at Compton.
--------------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) – 24 Jun 1942, Wed – p. 1
Santa Ana Marine Corps Flier Credited With Downing Two Jap Airplanes In Battle of Midway
A story of the heroism of Marine pilots based on Midway Island was told today by Second Lieutenant Roy A. Corry, Santa Ana pilot, by means of the United Press from a Marine base, somewhere in Hawaii.
On Patrol
In his account, Corry said he and Captain Francis P. McCarthy of Newton, Mass., had been on patrol and had just landed and refueled, when the attack started. "We go up about 8000 feet when we ran into a rat race, " he related. "We were circling with about eight Jap planes. McCarthy was about four planes ahead of me. He got two Japs and I got one of those behind him. Then McCarthy dived on several Japs below us; I turned out the other way. I couldn't get rid of the Japs on my tail, but I dived on a dive bomber below with the Japs still riding me. But I got the dive bomber.
Still Followed "I was up about 15 minutes trying to get back to the island. When I got back they still were following me. I made a quick circle and came in with the Japs still following me. One was shot down by a ground gun. My plane had about 60 holes in it." . . .
-------------------------------------
Santa Ana Register (Santa Ana, California) – 28 Sep 1942, Mon – p. 1
Lt. Roy Corry Listed Missing
After successfully weathering the battle of Midway in which he was officially credited with downing two Japanese planes, Second Lieut. Roy A Corry, 21 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy A. Corry, 2600 West First street, is listed as missing in action.
Received Telegram
Mr. and Mrs. Corry received notification concerning their son Saturday afternoon from the Navy department. Lieutenant Corry is the second member of his squadron from Santa Ana to be listed as missing. A fellow townsman and pilot, Lieutenant Walter Swanberger, had previously been reported missing following the Midway battle. It was in April of this year that Lieutenant Corry found it was a small world after all when shortly after being stationed on Midway island, he discovered another Santa Ana man in his same squadron, Marion E. Carl, who since has been promoted to the rank of Captain and is the group's leader. In the same outfit also was Walter Swanberger.
Attended J.C. Here
Lieutenant Corry attended Santa Ana Junior college where he took pilot training, later attending Compton Junior college where he finished his advanced flight training. He took his Marine Corps training at Jacksonville, FL, along with Lieutenant Swanberger, and was sent to Midway in January of this year.
--------------------------------------
Navy Cross Citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Roy A. Corry, Second Lieutenant, United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Squadron Commander and 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 assault against a vastly superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Corry shot down one Navy Aichi Type dive bomber and one OO Isento KI Navy Fighter, thereby aiding in the disruption of enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great personal risk against tremendous odds, contributed materially to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
-------------------------------------
Presidential Unit Citation reads:
Marine Air Group 22 Presidential Unit Citation reads:
"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 Roy A. Corry, Jr., who died in the service of his country at SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED MARINE AIR GROUP TWENTY THREE, 27 August 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
-----------------------------------
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 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]]
-------------------------------------
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 #237 composed by Gerry Lawton (GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor #131334
Gravesite Details
Entered the service from California.
