Richard Merrill Rowell | |
---|---|
Born | August 6, 1916 |
Died | May 8, 1942 | (aged 25)
Place of birth | Sonoma, California |
Place of death | at sea Coral Sea |
Allegiance | United States of America |
Service/branch | United States Naval Reserve |
Years of service | 1939–1942 |
Rank | Ensign |
Unit | Lexington (CV-2) |
Battles/wars |
World War II *Battle of the Coral Sea |
Awards |
Distinguished Flying Cross with Gold Star added |
Richard Merrill Rowell was born in Sonoma, California, 6 August 1916.
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Enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve 8 August 1939, he was commissioned ensign 20 August 1940. He reported for duty as a fighter pilot to USS Lexington (CV-2) on 5 November 1940.
Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross[]
Rowell received the Distinguished Flying Cross for downing a Japanese plane 20 February 1942. During the Battle of the Coral Sea 7 to 8 May 1942, he won a gold star in lieu of a second Distinguished Flying Cross, before failing to return from his last mission.
Namesake[]
USS Richard M. Rowell (DE-403) was named in his honor. She was laid down 18 August 1943 by Brown Shipbuilding Co., Houston, Texas; Launched 17 November 1943; Sponsored by Mrs. Agnes M. Rowell; and commissioned 9 March 1944, Lt. Comdr. Harry A. Barnard, Jr., in command.
References[]
- This article incorporates text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.
The original article can be found at Richard M. Rowell and the edit history here.