Henry R. Kenyon Jr.
Henry Russell Kenyon Jr. | |
|---|---|
| Born | February 4, 1916 Bronxville, New York |
| Died | June 4, 1942 (aged 26) vicinity of Midway Atoll |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ | United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1940–1942 |
| Rank | Ensign |
| Unit | Torpedo Squadron 8 (VT-8) |
| Battles/wars | World War II *Battle of Midway |
| Awards | Navy Cross |
Henry Russell Kenyon Jr., was born 4 February 1916 in Bronxville, New York, and enlisted in the United States Navy on 5 November 1940. He was discharged in 1941 to accept an appointment as Aviation Cadet and was commissioned Ensign on 4 August 1941. After undergoing advanced flight training Kenyon joined Torpedo Squadron 8 (VT-8) for duty in the Pacific.
Kenyon flew as a member of that squadron from the famous aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-8) in the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. After takeoff, the squadron lost contact with the rest of Hornet's strike force, and subsequently found the Japanese carriers alone. Knowing that they lacked fighter cover, Kenyon and his comrades attacked gallantly until all were shot down. Ens. Kenyon was presumed dead 5 June 1942 and was awarded the Navy Cross posthumously for his heroic actions.
Namesake[edit]
In 1943, the destroyer escort USS Henry R. Kenyon (DE-683) was named in his honor.
References[edit]
- This article incorporates text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships. The entry can be found here.
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