Robert Boyd, born 13 June 1916 in Tooele, UT, was the only child of Celia Grace (McMahon) Bringhurst and her second husband, Russell Herman Brazier, on 08 Nov 1915 in Pocatello, Bannock, ID., Celia's first husband was Jacob Weiler Bringhurst. They married on 16 Feb 1912 in SLC. They were divorced several years later. She was the second of his four wives. Russell Brazier apparently left the family before 1920 when he was enumerated in the 1920 census in Clarkdale, AZ. He married Lillian Josephine (Olson) Reiland on 30 Dec 1933 in Cut Bank, Glacier, MT. Celia did not remarry and raised her son alone. For awhile, Celia lived with a sister in Tooele, UT. The area was a mining mecca so life could not have been easy for a young man growing up with no father present. But, Robert and his mother pressed on. He graduated from Tooele High School in Tooele, UT. Later, he married Helen Squires in Seattle, WA on 28 Nov 1941 while his ship, USS Saratoga (CV-3), was completing a repair and refit at the Navy shipyard at Bremerton.
Robert Boyd Brazier enlisted in the US Navy (368-45-62) on 6 Oct 1939 in Salt Lake City, UT as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.). He was transferred to the US Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego, CA for recruit training. He completed training in Dec and was granted about two weeks recruit leave. Upon returning to NTS San Diego, he was enrolled in the 16 week Radioman Service School in January 1940. While in school he advanced in rate to Seaman Second Class (S2c). According to the 1940 US Census, S2c Robert B. Brazier was enumerated at the NTS, San Diego, CA on 01 April 1940. He completed the Radioman School and detached NTS San Diego with orders to report for duty on board the aircraft carrier, USS Saratoga (CV-3). Seaman 2/c Brazier reported to the transport ship USS Chaumont (AP-5) for a ride to the battleship, USS West Virginia (BB-48), on 4 Jun 1940 for further transfer to the Saratoga. He reported for duty on board the Saratoga in Hawaii on 14 Jun 1940. S2/c Brazier advanced in rate to S1/c on 16 Nov 1940. Less than a year later, S1/c Brazier was advanced in rate to Radioman Third Class (RM3) on 01 May 1941. Petty Officer Brazier was transferred to Torpedo Squadron 3 (VT-3) for duty on 18 Dec 1941. In 1942, Petty Officer Brazier was advanced in rate to Aviation Radioman Second Class (ARM2).
When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941, Saratoga was entering San Diego Harbor to embark her air group, which had been training ashore while the ship was refitting. The air group consisted of 11 Grumman F4F-3 Wildcat fighters of VF-3, 43 Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bombers of VB-3 and VS-3, and 11 Douglas TBD Devastator torpedo bombers of VT-3. The ship also loaded 14 Marine Corps Brewster F2A-3 Buffalo fighters of VMF-221 for delivery in Oahu. The following morning the Saratoga, now the flagship of Carrier Division One, commanded by Rear Admiral Aubrey Fitch, sailed for Pearl Harbor. She arrived at Pearl Harbor on 15 Dec 1941, refueled, reprovisioned, and steamed for Wake Island the next day with orders to relieve the Marine garrison on Wake. After weather caused delays and reports of heavy Japanese carrier airstrikes and troop landings, Saratoga and the rest of Task Force 14 was recalled to Pearl Harbor on 23 Dec 1941.
On 11 Jan 1942, while Saratoga steamed towards a rendezvous with USS Enterprise (CV-6), she was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine. She returned to Pearl Harbor for temporary repairs then steamed to the West Coast shipyard at Bremerton for more extensive repairs on 2 Feb 1942. During the yard period Saratoga's embarked squadrons were transferred elsewhere. VT-3 was temporarily assigned first to NAS Pearl Harbor at Ford Island then to NAS Kaneohe Bay on Hawaii.
On 28 May 1942, the aircraft carriers USS Enterprise and USS Hornet sortied from Pearl Harbor and steamed toward Midway and "Point Luck." Yorktown, patched up following battle damage received during the Battle of the Coral Sea, was the last to get underway from Pearl Harbor. Shortly after clearing the harbor, Yorktown began receiving her squadrons of planes. It was during this fly-on that Torpedo Squadron Three, recently reassigned to Yorktown, flew on board for duty.
On the morning of 4 Jun 1942, aircraft of Air Group Five, including VT-3, launched from USS Yorktown to attack a Japanese carrier force approaching Midway. VT-3 found the Japanese carriers and commenced their attack through an onslaught of enemy fighters and anti aircraft fire. Twelve torpedo planes attacked and ten were shot down. Only two returned and had to ditch in the water. Three of the four crewman survived. During the attack Petty Officer Brazier was seriously wounded. As they exited the Japanese force, Brazier was asked by his pilot, Chief Aviation Pilot (CAP) Wilhelm Esders, to switch a radio setting, which would allow them to pick up a homing signal back to their carrier. Although he initially said he was unable to comply because of his wounds, Brazier somehow found a way to change the radio setting. Following that homing signal, CAP Esders found his way back to the Yorktown. However, when they arrived at Yorktown she was under attack. Esders then headed for Enterprise but ran out of fuel about 10 miles away. After ditching in the ocean, Esders was able to get both himself and his injured gunner, Petty Officer Brazier, out of the aircraft and into their life raft. It was in this raft that ARM2 Brazier succumbed to his wounds. His remains were committed to the sea. CAP Esders was rescued the next day, 5 Jun 1942.
ARM2 Brazier's family was notified of his death by telegram from the Navy Department in July 1942. He was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with a bronze star and the World War II Victory Medal.
---------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Boyd Brazier, Aviation Radioman Second Class, United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in the Battle of Midway. As gunner of a Torpedo Squadron THREE airplane he participated in a torpedo plane attack against Japanese naval forces on 4 June 1942. Without regard for danger from intense anti-aircraft fire and overwhelming enemy fighter opposition, he vigorously and with heroic determination, defended his airplane from attacks and was mortally wounded. After receiving this wound and reporting that he was unable to continue defending his aircraft, he performed essential radio operations which enabled the pilot to return to his own force. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
---------------------------------
The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 08 Jul 1942, Wed - Page 19
Salt Lake Man Gives Life In Navy Battle
Robert Boyd Brazier, U.S. navy second class aviation radioman from Salt Lake City, has given his life in defense of his country. The official navy telegram that Mr. Brazier was killed in action was received Tuesday by the sailor's mother, Mrs. Cella (sic) Brazier of the Moxum hotel, and his widow, Mrs. Helen Squires Brazier of 1725 Eighth East street. Born in Tooele, June 13, 1916, Mr. Brazier was educated in the public schools of that city. Joining the navy in October, 1939, he had seen service in Pacific waters. He married Miss Squires in Seattle, Wash., November 28, 1941. Surviving the Utahn are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Brazier of San Pedro, Cal.; his widow, and an aunt, Miss Wynne McMahon of the Newhouse hotel.
------------------------------------
The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 23 Jul 1942, Thu - Page 15
Navy Reports Death of Utah Seaman
Washington, July 22 (UP) – One enlisted man from Utah is reported dead in the navy department's casualty list No. 8, which covers the period from July 1 to July 10. Reported dead was Robert Boyd Brazier, aviation radioman, second class, United States navy. His next of kin are listed as his wife, Mrs Helen Brazier, 1725 South Eighth East street, Salt Lake City, and his mother, Mrs, Celia Grace Brazier, Moxum hotel, Salt Lake City.
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The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 04 Mar 1943, Thu - Page 11
Navy Bestows DFCs Upon Two S.L. Men
Washington, March 3, (UP) – Among 21 enlisted men and one officer to receive the distinguished flying cross for heroic action in the battle of Midway were two Salt Lakers, the navy announced today. A posthumous award of the distinguished flying cross was made to Radioman First Class (sic) Robert Boyd Brazier of Salt Lake City, who was killed during the battle. Radioman First Class Harry William Nelson Jr., of Salt Lake City, now listed as missing, also received the award.
-----------------------------------------
The Ogden Standard-Examiner (Ogden, Utah) - 17 Jan 1944, Mon - Page 3
Salt Lake Mother to Christen Ship
Salt Lake City, Jan 17 (AP).
Mrs Celia A Brazier, accompanied by a sister and friend, left Saturday night for Orange, Tex., where she will participate in launching the U.S.S. Robert Brazier, a light naval craft. The ship will be named after Mrs. Brazier's son, Robert Boyd Brazier of Salt Lake City, radioman second class who was killed on June 4, 1941, in the battle of Midway.
-------------------------------------------
The USS Robert Brazier (DE-345) was a John C. Butler class destroyer escort named in his honor. The ship was sponsored by his mother, Mrs Celia Brazier. It was commissioned on 18 May 1944 in Orange, TX. Following her shakedown cruise off Bermuda USS Brazier was active in convoy escort duties in the Atlantic and Mediterranean before moving to the Pacific. She supported the invasion of the Philippines and after the war ended she returned to San Pedro, CA on 17 Dec 1945. She was decommissioned on 16 Sept 1946. She remained in the Pacific Reserve Fleet in San Diego and later in Bremerton, WA where on 1 Jan 1968 she was struck from the Navy list. Later, she was sunk as a target. USS Robert Brazier earned one battle star during WWII.
--------------------------------------------
Honor Scroll
His family also received a scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of ARM2 Brazier. The citation reads: In grateful memory of Robert Boyd BRAZIER who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. YORKTOWN, June 4, 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
-------------------------------------------------
Arizona Republic (Phoenix, Arizona) - 03 Apr 1944, Mon - Page 7
Flier, Rescuer Finally Meet
By E.V.W. Jones
Miami, Fla., Apr. 2 – (AP) –
In June, 1942, Lt. (JG) Wilhelm G. Esders, of St. Joseph, Mo., was a member of a torpedo squadron on the aircraft carrier Yorktown: Lt. Arthur J. Brassfield, of Browning, Mo., was a fighter pilot on the same ship. The two Missourians never met.
June 4, 1942, Esders and his squadron took off from the Yorktown for a point 150 miles away where a Japanese aircraft carrier was launching her dive-bombers for attacks on the Americans.
Esders scored a hit on the Nipponese ship, but intense anti-air craft fire mortally wounded his gunner [PO Robert B. Brazier] and punched countless holes in his plane. Gasoline streamed from his fuel tanks. Before he was halfway home, his gauges registered empty, and he radioed that he was alighting on the ocean. His plane nosed down, the tail above the waves. Esders released his tiny lifeboat, got the dying gunner on it, and was ready to climb aboard himself when he heard the motor of a circling plane.
Above him was a Japanese dive bomber. It circled several times, then nosed down into a dive, aimed straight for him. He was fascinated. At that moment, an American fighter streaked out of nowhere, machine guns chattering. The Japanese jerked out of the dive and sought safety in flight. Esders watched the unknown fighter over-take the enemy and send him spinning to death.
Brassfield was busy, too, that June morning. A part of the fighter cover over the Yorktown, he sent his fighter among a swarm of enemy dive-bombers and shot down two. The Japanese formation broke and the angry growls and whines of dogfights spread over the sky.
Brassfield chased one enemy craft for miles and ripped it apart, then caught sight of another, circling. Brassfield had to look hard to see what interested the Japanese: the tail of a plane and the spot of orange of a life raft on the sea.
In an instant, the fighter pilot decided his course of action. He aimed his plane at the midway point of the enemy's dive and slapped his throttle wide open as the enemy nosed down. Brassfield opened fire at 1,500 yards, much too great a distance for effective shooting. But the Japanese jerked out of the dive and tried to escape. Brassfield sped after him, sent him spinning to death.
Esders was picked up by a destroyer and eventually returned to duty. More than a year later, he was ordered to the Miami naval air station to serve as an instructor. There Lt. Stuart Ludlum interviewed him.
Brassfield, too, reported to the Miami naval station. He, too, was interviewed by Lieutenant Ludlum, who went back and read over his reports, compared them. Then Ludlum called both veterans of the battle of Midway together. "You don't realize it, but you two know each other," he told them.
--------------------------
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.
---------------
[Bio#165 compiled by Gerry Lawton, GML470/G47]
Military Hall of Honor ID#88755
Robert Boyd Brazier enlisted in the US Navy (368-45-62) on 6 Oct 1939 in Salt Lake City, UT as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.). He was transferred to the US Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego, CA for recruit training. He completed training in Dec and was granted about two weeks recruit leave. Upon returning to NTS San Diego, he was enrolled in the 16 week Radioman Service School in January 1940. While in school he advanced in rate to Seaman Second Class (S2c). According to the 1940 US Census, S2c Robert B. Brazier was enumerated at the NTS, San Diego, CA on 01 April 1940. He completed the Radioman School and detached NTS San Diego with orders to report for duty on board the aircraft carrier, USS Saratoga (CV-3). Seaman 2/c Brazier reported to the transport ship USS Chaumont (AP-5) for a ride to the battleship, USS West Virginia (BB-48), on 4 Jun 1940 for further transfer to the Saratoga. He reported for duty on board the Saratoga in Hawaii on 14 Jun 1940. S2/c Brazier advanced in rate to S1/c on 16 Nov 1940. Less than a year later, S1/c Brazier was advanced in rate to Radioman Third Class (RM3) on 01 May 1941. Petty Officer Brazier was transferred to Torpedo Squadron 3 (VT-3) for duty on 18 Dec 1941. In 1942, Petty Officer Brazier was advanced in rate to Aviation Radioman Second Class (ARM2).
When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941, Saratoga was entering San Diego Harbor to embark her air group, which had been training ashore while the ship was refitting. The air group consisted of 11 Grumman F4F-3 Wildcat fighters of VF-3, 43 Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bombers of VB-3 and VS-3, and 11 Douglas TBD Devastator torpedo bombers of VT-3. The ship also loaded 14 Marine Corps Brewster F2A-3 Buffalo fighters of VMF-221 for delivery in Oahu. The following morning the Saratoga, now the flagship of Carrier Division One, commanded by Rear Admiral Aubrey Fitch, sailed for Pearl Harbor. She arrived at Pearl Harbor on 15 Dec 1941, refueled, reprovisioned, and steamed for Wake Island the next day with orders to relieve the Marine garrison on Wake. After weather caused delays and reports of heavy Japanese carrier airstrikes and troop landings, Saratoga and the rest of Task Force 14 was recalled to Pearl Harbor on 23 Dec 1941.
On 11 Jan 1942, while Saratoga steamed towards a rendezvous with USS Enterprise (CV-6), she was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine. She returned to Pearl Harbor for temporary repairs then steamed to the West Coast shipyard at Bremerton for more extensive repairs on 2 Feb 1942. During the yard period Saratoga's embarked squadrons were transferred elsewhere. VT-3 was temporarily assigned first to NAS Pearl Harbor at Ford Island then to NAS Kaneohe Bay on Hawaii.
On 28 May 1942, the aircraft carriers USS Enterprise and USS Hornet sortied from Pearl Harbor and steamed toward Midway and "Point Luck." Yorktown, patched up following battle damage received during the Battle of the Coral Sea, was the last to get underway from Pearl Harbor. Shortly after clearing the harbor, Yorktown began receiving her squadrons of planes. It was during this fly-on that Torpedo Squadron Three, recently reassigned to Yorktown, flew on board for duty.
On the morning of 4 Jun 1942, aircraft of Air Group Five, including VT-3, launched from USS Yorktown to attack a Japanese carrier force approaching Midway. VT-3 found the Japanese carriers and commenced their attack through an onslaught of enemy fighters and anti aircraft fire. Twelve torpedo planes attacked and ten were shot down. Only two returned and had to ditch in the water. Three of the four crewman survived. During the attack Petty Officer Brazier was seriously wounded. As they exited the Japanese force, Brazier was asked by his pilot, Chief Aviation Pilot (CAP) Wilhelm Esders, to switch a radio setting, which would allow them to pick up a homing signal back to their carrier. Although he initially said he was unable to comply because of his wounds, Brazier somehow found a way to change the radio setting. Following that homing signal, CAP Esders found his way back to the Yorktown. However, when they arrived at Yorktown she was under attack. Esders then headed for Enterprise but ran out of fuel about 10 miles away. After ditching in the ocean, Esders was able to get both himself and his injured gunner, Petty Officer Brazier, out of the aircraft and into their life raft. It was in this raft that ARM2 Brazier succumbed to his wounds. His remains were committed to the sea. CAP Esders was rescued the next day, 5 Jun 1942.
ARM2 Brazier's family was notified of his death by telegram from the Navy Department in July 1942. He was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with a bronze star and the World War II Victory Medal.
---------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Boyd Brazier, Aviation Radioman Second Class, United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in the Battle of Midway. As gunner of a Torpedo Squadron THREE airplane he participated in a torpedo plane attack against Japanese naval forces on 4 June 1942. Without regard for danger from intense anti-aircraft fire and overwhelming enemy fighter opposition, he vigorously and with heroic determination, defended his airplane from attacks and was mortally wounded. After receiving this wound and reporting that he was unable to continue defending his aircraft, he performed essential radio operations which enabled the pilot to return to his own force. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
---------------------------------
The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 08 Jul 1942, Wed - Page 19
Salt Lake Man Gives Life In Navy Battle
Robert Boyd Brazier, U.S. navy second class aviation radioman from Salt Lake City, has given his life in defense of his country. The official navy telegram that Mr. Brazier was killed in action was received Tuesday by the sailor's mother, Mrs. Cella (sic) Brazier of the Moxum hotel, and his widow, Mrs. Helen Squires Brazier of 1725 Eighth East street. Born in Tooele, June 13, 1916, Mr. Brazier was educated in the public schools of that city. Joining the navy in October, 1939, he had seen service in Pacific waters. He married Miss Squires in Seattle, Wash., November 28, 1941. Surviving the Utahn are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Brazier of San Pedro, Cal.; his widow, and an aunt, Miss Wynne McMahon of the Newhouse hotel.
------------------------------------
The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 23 Jul 1942, Thu - Page 15
Navy Reports Death of Utah Seaman
Washington, July 22 (UP) – One enlisted man from Utah is reported dead in the navy department's casualty list No. 8, which covers the period from July 1 to July 10. Reported dead was Robert Boyd Brazier, aviation radioman, second class, United States navy. His next of kin are listed as his wife, Mrs Helen Brazier, 1725 South Eighth East street, Salt Lake City, and his mother, Mrs, Celia Grace Brazier, Moxum hotel, Salt Lake City.
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The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 04 Mar 1943, Thu - Page 11
Navy Bestows DFCs Upon Two S.L. Men
Washington, March 3, (UP) – Among 21 enlisted men and one officer to receive the distinguished flying cross for heroic action in the battle of Midway were two Salt Lakers, the navy announced today. A posthumous award of the distinguished flying cross was made to Radioman First Class (sic) Robert Boyd Brazier of Salt Lake City, who was killed during the battle. Radioman First Class Harry William Nelson Jr., of Salt Lake City, now listed as missing, also received the award.
-----------------------------------------
The Ogden Standard-Examiner (Ogden, Utah) - 17 Jan 1944, Mon - Page 3
Salt Lake Mother to Christen Ship
Salt Lake City, Jan 17 (AP).
Mrs Celia A Brazier, accompanied by a sister and friend, left Saturday night for Orange, Tex., where she will participate in launching the U.S.S. Robert Brazier, a light naval craft. The ship will be named after Mrs. Brazier's son, Robert Boyd Brazier of Salt Lake City, radioman second class who was killed on June 4, 1941, in the battle of Midway.
-------------------------------------------
The USS Robert Brazier (DE-345) was a John C. Butler class destroyer escort named in his honor. The ship was sponsored by his mother, Mrs Celia Brazier. It was commissioned on 18 May 1944 in Orange, TX. Following her shakedown cruise off Bermuda USS Brazier was active in convoy escort duties in the Atlantic and Mediterranean before moving to the Pacific. She supported the invasion of the Philippines and after the war ended she returned to San Pedro, CA on 17 Dec 1945. She was decommissioned on 16 Sept 1946. She remained in the Pacific Reserve Fleet in San Diego and later in Bremerton, WA where on 1 Jan 1968 she was struck from the Navy list. Later, she was sunk as a target. USS Robert Brazier earned one battle star during WWII.
--------------------------------------------
Honor Scroll
His family also received a scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of ARM2 Brazier. The citation reads: In grateful memory of Robert Boyd BRAZIER who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. YORKTOWN, June 4, 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
-------------------------------------------------
Arizona Republic (Phoenix, Arizona) - 03 Apr 1944, Mon - Page 7
Flier, Rescuer Finally Meet
By E.V.W. Jones
Miami, Fla., Apr. 2 – (AP) –
In June, 1942, Lt. (JG) Wilhelm G. Esders, of St. Joseph, Mo., was a member of a torpedo squadron on the aircraft carrier Yorktown: Lt. Arthur J. Brassfield, of Browning, Mo., was a fighter pilot on the same ship. The two Missourians never met.
June 4, 1942, Esders and his squadron took off from the Yorktown for a point 150 miles away where a Japanese aircraft carrier was launching her dive-bombers for attacks on the Americans.
Esders scored a hit on the Nipponese ship, but intense anti-air craft fire mortally wounded his gunner [PO Robert B. Brazier] and punched countless holes in his plane. Gasoline streamed from his fuel tanks. Before he was halfway home, his gauges registered empty, and he radioed that he was alighting on the ocean. His plane nosed down, the tail above the waves. Esders released his tiny lifeboat, got the dying gunner on it, and was ready to climb aboard himself when he heard the motor of a circling plane.
Above him was a Japanese dive bomber. It circled several times, then nosed down into a dive, aimed straight for him. He was fascinated. At that moment, an American fighter streaked out of nowhere, machine guns chattering. The Japanese jerked out of the dive and sought safety in flight. Esders watched the unknown fighter over-take the enemy and send him spinning to death.
Brassfield was busy, too, that June morning. A part of the fighter cover over the Yorktown, he sent his fighter among a swarm of enemy dive-bombers and shot down two. The Japanese formation broke and the angry growls and whines of dogfights spread over the sky.
Brassfield chased one enemy craft for miles and ripped it apart, then caught sight of another, circling. Brassfield had to look hard to see what interested the Japanese: the tail of a plane and the spot of orange of a life raft on the sea.
In an instant, the fighter pilot decided his course of action. He aimed his plane at the midway point of the enemy's dive and slapped his throttle wide open as the enemy nosed down. Brassfield opened fire at 1,500 yards, much too great a distance for effective shooting. But the Japanese jerked out of the dive and tried to escape. Brassfield sped after him, sent him spinning to death.
Esders was picked up by a destroyer and eventually returned to duty. More than a year later, he was ordered to the Miami naval air station to serve as an instructor. There Lt. Stuart Ludlum interviewed him.
Brassfield, too, reported to the Miami naval station. He, too, was interviewed by Lieutenant Ludlum, who went back and read over his reports, compared them. Then Ludlum called both veterans of the battle of Midway together. "You don't realize it, but you two know each other," he told them.
--------------------------
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.
---------------
[Bio#165 compiled by Gerry Lawton, GML470/G47]
Military Hall of Honor ID#88755
Robert Boyd, born 13 June 1916 in Tooele, UT, was the only child of Celia Grace (McMahon) Bringhurst and her second husband, Russell Herman Brazier, on 08 Nov 1915 in Pocatello, Bannock, ID., Celia's first husband was Jacob Weiler Bringhurst. They married on 16 Feb 1912 in SLC. They were divorced several years later. She was the second of his four wives. Russell Brazier apparently left the family before 1920 when he was enumerated in the 1920 census in Clarkdale, AZ. He married Lillian Josephine (Olson) Reiland on 30 Dec 1933 in Cut Bank, Glacier, MT. Celia did not remarry and raised her son alone. For awhile, Celia lived with a sister in Tooele, UT. The area was a mining mecca so life could not have been easy for a young man growing up with no father present. But, Robert and his mother pressed on. He graduated from Tooele High School in Tooele, UT. Later, he married Helen Squires in Seattle, WA on 28 Nov 1941 while his ship, USS Saratoga (CV-3), was completing a repair and refit at the Navy shipyard at Bremerton.
Robert Boyd Brazier enlisted in the US Navy (368-45-62) on 6 Oct 1939 in Salt Lake City, UT as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.). He was transferred to the US Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego, CA for recruit training. He completed training in Dec and was granted about two weeks recruit leave. Upon returning to NTS San Diego, he was enrolled in the 16 week Radioman Service School in January 1940. While in school he advanced in rate to Seaman Second Class (S2c). According to the 1940 US Census, S2c Robert B. Brazier was enumerated at the NTS, San Diego, CA on 01 April 1940. He completed the Radioman School and detached NTS San Diego with orders to report for duty on board the aircraft carrier, USS Saratoga (CV-3). Seaman 2/c Brazier reported to the transport ship USS Chaumont (AP-5) for a ride to the battleship, USS West Virginia (BB-48), on 4 Jun 1940 for further transfer to the Saratoga. He reported for duty on board the Saratoga in Hawaii on 14 Jun 1940. S2/c Brazier advanced in rate to S1/c on 16 Nov 1940. Less than a year later, S1/c Brazier was advanced in rate to Radioman Third Class (RM3) on 01 May 1941. Petty Officer Brazier was transferred to Torpedo Squadron 3 (VT-3) for duty on 18 Dec 1941. In 1942, Petty Officer Brazier was advanced in rate to Aviation Radioman Second Class (ARM2).
When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941, Saratoga was entering San Diego Harbor to embark her air group, which had been training ashore while the ship was refitting. The air group consisted of 11 Grumman F4F-3 Wildcat fighters of VF-3, 43 Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bombers of VB-3 and VS-3, and 11 Douglas TBD Devastator torpedo bombers of VT-3. The ship also loaded 14 Marine Corps Brewster F2A-3 Buffalo fighters of VMF-221 for delivery in Oahu. The following morning the Saratoga, now the flagship of Carrier Division One, commanded by Rear Admiral Aubrey Fitch, sailed for Pearl Harbor. She arrived at Pearl Harbor on 15 Dec 1941, refueled, reprovisioned, and steamed for Wake Island the next day with orders to relieve the Marine garrison on Wake. After weather caused delays and reports of heavy Japanese carrier airstrikes and troop landings, Saratoga and the rest of Task Force 14 was recalled to Pearl Harbor on 23 Dec 1941.
On 11 Jan 1942, while Saratoga steamed towards a rendezvous with USS Enterprise (CV-6), she was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine. She returned to Pearl Harbor for temporary repairs then steamed to the West Coast shipyard at Bremerton for more extensive repairs on 2 Feb 1942. During the yard period Saratoga's embarked squadrons were transferred elsewhere. VT-3 was temporarily assigned first to NAS Pearl Harbor at Ford Island then to NAS Kaneohe Bay on Hawaii.
On 28 May 1942, the aircraft carriers USS Enterprise and USS Hornet sortied from Pearl Harbor and steamed toward Midway and "Point Luck." Yorktown, patched up following battle damage received during the Battle of the Coral Sea, was the last to get underway from Pearl Harbor. Shortly after clearing the harbor, Yorktown began receiving her squadrons of planes. It was during this fly-on that Torpedo Squadron Three, recently reassigned to Yorktown, flew on board for duty.
On the morning of 4 Jun 1942, aircraft of Air Group Five, including VT-3, launched from USS Yorktown to attack a Japanese carrier force approaching Midway. VT-3 found the Japanese carriers and commenced their attack through an onslaught of enemy fighters and anti aircraft fire. Twelve torpedo planes attacked and ten were shot down. Only two returned and had to ditch in the water. Three of the four crewman survived. During the attack Petty Officer Brazier was seriously wounded. As they exited the Japanese force, Brazier was asked by his pilot, Chief Aviation Pilot (CAP) Wilhelm Esders, to switch a radio setting, which would allow them to pick up a homing signal back to their carrier. Although he initially said he was unable to comply because of his wounds, Brazier somehow found a way to change the radio setting. Following that homing signal, CAP Esders found his way back to the Yorktown. However, when they arrived at Yorktown she was under attack. Esders then headed for Enterprise but ran out of fuel about 10 miles away. After ditching in the ocean, Esders was able to get both himself and his injured gunner, Petty Officer Brazier, out of the aircraft and into their life raft. It was in this raft that ARM2 Brazier succumbed to his wounds. His remains were committed to the sea. CAP Esders was rescued the next day, 5 Jun 1942.
ARM2 Brazier's family was notified of his death by telegram from the Navy Department in July 1942. He was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with a bronze star and the World War II Victory Medal.
---------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Boyd Brazier, Aviation Radioman Second Class, United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in the Battle of Midway. As gunner of a Torpedo Squadron THREE airplane he participated in a torpedo plane attack against Japanese naval forces on 4 June 1942. Without regard for danger from intense anti-aircraft fire and overwhelming enemy fighter opposition, he vigorously and with heroic determination, defended his airplane from attacks and was mortally wounded. After receiving this wound and reporting that he was unable to continue defending his aircraft, he performed essential radio operations which enabled the pilot to return to his own force. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
---------------------------------
The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 08 Jul 1942, Wed - Page 19
Salt Lake Man Gives Life In Navy Battle
Robert Boyd Brazier, U.S. navy second class aviation radioman from Salt Lake City, has given his life in defense of his country. The official navy telegram that Mr. Brazier was killed in action was received Tuesday by the sailor's mother, Mrs. Cella (sic) Brazier of the Moxum hotel, and his widow, Mrs. Helen Squires Brazier of 1725 Eighth East street. Born in Tooele, June 13, 1916, Mr. Brazier was educated in the public schools of that city. Joining the navy in October, 1939, he had seen service in Pacific waters. He married Miss Squires in Seattle, Wash., November 28, 1941. Surviving the Utahn are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Brazier of San Pedro, Cal.; his widow, and an aunt, Miss Wynne McMahon of the Newhouse hotel.
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The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 23 Jul 1942, Thu - Page 15
Navy Reports Death of Utah Seaman
Washington, July 22 (UP) – One enlisted man from Utah is reported dead in the navy department's casualty list No. 8, which covers the period from July 1 to July 10. Reported dead was Robert Boyd Brazier, aviation radioman, second class, United States navy. His next of kin are listed as his wife, Mrs Helen Brazier, 1725 South Eighth East street, Salt Lake City, and his mother, Mrs, Celia Grace Brazier, Moxum hotel, Salt Lake City.
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The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 04 Mar 1943, Thu - Page 11
Navy Bestows DFCs Upon Two S.L. Men
Washington, March 3, (UP) – Among 21 enlisted men and one officer to receive the distinguished flying cross for heroic action in the battle of Midway were two Salt Lakers, the navy announced today. A posthumous award of the distinguished flying cross was made to Radioman First Class (sic) Robert Boyd Brazier of Salt Lake City, who was killed during the battle. Radioman First Class Harry William Nelson Jr., of Salt Lake City, now listed as missing, also received the award.
-----------------------------------------
The Ogden Standard-Examiner (Ogden, Utah) - 17 Jan 1944, Mon - Page 3
Salt Lake Mother to Christen Ship
Salt Lake City, Jan 17 (AP).
Mrs Celia A Brazier, accompanied by a sister and friend, left Saturday night for Orange, Tex., where she will participate in launching the U.S.S. Robert Brazier, a light naval craft. The ship will be named after Mrs. Brazier's son, Robert Boyd Brazier of Salt Lake City, radioman second class who was killed on June 4, 1941, in the battle of Midway.
-------------------------------------------
The USS Robert Brazier (DE-345) was a John C. Butler class destroyer escort named in his honor. The ship was sponsored by his mother, Mrs Celia Brazier. It was commissioned on 18 May 1944 in Orange, TX. Following her shakedown cruise off Bermuda USS Brazier was active in convoy escort duties in the Atlantic and Mediterranean before moving to the Pacific. She supported the invasion of the Philippines and after the war ended she returned to San Pedro, CA on 17 Dec 1945. She was decommissioned on 16 Sept 1946. She remained in the Pacific Reserve Fleet in San Diego and later in Bremerton, WA where on 1 Jan 1968 she was struck from the Navy list. Later, she was sunk as a target. USS Robert Brazier earned one battle star during WWII.
--------------------------------------------
Honor Scroll
His family also received a scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of ARM2 Brazier. The citation reads: In grateful memory of Robert Boyd BRAZIER who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. YORKTOWN, June 4, 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
-------------------------------------------------
Arizona Republic (Phoenix, Arizona) - 03 Apr 1944, Mon - Page 7
Flier, Rescuer Finally Meet
By E.V.W. Jones
Miami, Fla., Apr. 2 – (AP) –
In June, 1942, Lt. (JG) Wilhelm G. Esders, of St. Joseph, Mo., was a member of a torpedo squadron on the aircraft carrier Yorktown: Lt. Arthur J. Brassfield, of Browning, Mo., was a fighter pilot on the same ship. The two Missourians never met.
June 4, 1942, Esders and his squadron took off from the Yorktown for a point 150 miles away where a Japanese aircraft carrier was launching her dive-bombers for attacks on the Americans.
Esders scored a hit on the Nipponese ship, but intense anti-air craft fire mortally wounded his gunner [PO Robert B. Brazier] and punched countless holes in his plane. Gasoline streamed from his fuel tanks. Before he was halfway home, his gauges registered empty, and he radioed that he was alighting on the ocean. His plane nosed down, the tail above the waves. Esders released his tiny lifeboat, got the dying gunner on it, and was ready to climb aboard himself when he heard the motor of a circling plane.
Above him was a Japanese dive bomber. It circled several times, then nosed down into a dive, aimed straight for him. He was fascinated. At that moment, an American fighter streaked out of nowhere, machine guns chattering. The Japanese jerked out of the dive and sought safety in flight. Esders watched the unknown fighter over-take the enemy and send him spinning to death.
Brassfield was busy, too, that June morning. A part of the fighter cover over the Yorktown, he sent his fighter among a swarm of enemy dive-bombers and shot down two. The Japanese formation broke and the angry growls and whines of dogfights spread over the sky.
Brassfield chased one enemy craft for miles and ripped it apart, then caught sight of another, circling. Brassfield had to look hard to see what interested the Japanese: the tail of a plane and the spot of orange of a life raft on the sea.
In an instant, the fighter pilot decided his course of action. He aimed his plane at the midway point of the enemy's dive and slapped his throttle wide open as the enemy nosed down. Brassfield opened fire at 1,500 yards, much too great a distance for effective shooting. But the Japanese jerked out of the dive and tried to escape. Brassfield sped after him, sent him spinning to death.
Esders was picked up by a destroyer and eventually returned to duty. More than a year later, he was ordered to the Miami naval air station to serve as an instructor. There Lt. Stuart Ludlum interviewed him.
Brassfield, too, reported to the Miami naval station. He, too, was interviewed by Lieutenant Ludlum, who went back and read over his reports, compared them. Then Ludlum called both veterans of the battle of Midway together. "You don't realize it, but you two know each other," he told them.
--------------------------
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.
---------------
[Bio#165 compiled by Gerry Lawton, GML470/G47]
Military Hall of Honor ID#88755
Robert Boyd Brazier enlisted in the US Navy (368-45-62) on 6 Oct 1939 in Salt Lake City, UT as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.). He was transferred to the US Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego, CA for recruit training. He completed training in Dec and was granted about two weeks recruit leave. Upon returning to NTS San Diego, he was enrolled in the 16 week Radioman Service School in January 1940. While in school he advanced in rate to Seaman Second Class (S2c). According to the 1940 US Census, S2c Robert B. Brazier was enumerated at the NTS, San Diego, CA on 01 April 1940. He completed the Radioman School and detached NTS San Diego with orders to report for duty on board the aircraft carrier, USS Saratoga (CV-3). Seaman 2/c Brazier reported to the transport ship USS Chaumont (AP-5) for a ride to the battleship, USS West Virginia (BB-48), on 4 Jun 1940 for further transfer to the Saratoga. He reported for duty on board the Saratoga in Hawaii on 14 Jun 1940. S2/c Brazier advanced in rate to S1/c on 16 Nov 1940. Less than a year later, S1/c Brazier was advanced in rate to Radioman Third Class (RM3) on 01 May 1941. Petty Officer Brazier was transferred to Torpedo Squadron 3 (VT-3) for duty on 18 Dec 1941. In 1942, Petty Officer Brazier was advanced in rate to Aviation Radioman Second Class (ARM2).
When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941, Saratoga was entering San Diego Harbor to embark her air group, which had been training ashore while the ship was refitting. The air group consisted of 11 Grumman F4F-3 Wildcat fighters of VF-3, 43 Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bombers of VB-3 and VS-3, and 11 Douglas TBD Devastator torpedo bombers of VT-3. The ship also loaded 14 Marine Corps Brewster F2A-3 Buffalo fighters of VMF-221 for delivery in Oahu. The following morning the Saratoga, now the flagship of Carrier Division One, commanded by Rear Admiral Aubrey Fitch, sailed for Pearl Harbor. She arrived at Pearl Harbor on 15 Dec 1941, refueled, reprovisioned, and steamed for Wake Island the next day with orders to relieve the Marine garrison on Wake. After weather caused delays and reports of heavy Japanese carrier airstrikes and troop landings, Saratoga and the rest of Task Force 14 was recalled to Pearl Harbor on 23 Dec 1941.
On 11 Jan 1942, while Saratoga steamed towards a rendezvous with USS Enterprise (CV-6), she was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine. She returned to Pearl Harbor for temporary repairs then steamed to the West Coast shipyard at Bremerton for more extensive repairs on 2 Feb 1942. During the yard period Saratoga's embarked squadrons were transferred elsewhere. VT-3 was temporarily assigned first to NAS Pearl Harbor at Ford Island then to NAS Kaneohe Bay on Hawaii.
On 28 May 1942, the aircraft carriers USS Enterprise and USS Hornet sortied from Pearl Harbor and steamed toward Midway and "Point Luck." Yorktown, patched up following battle damage received during the Battle of the Coral Sea, was the last to get underway from Pearl Harbor. Shortly after clearing the harbor, Yorktown began receiving her squadrons of planes. It was during this fly-on that Torpedo Squadron Three, recently reassigned to Yorktown, flew on board for duty.
On the morning of 4 Jun 1942, aircraft of Air Group Five, including VT-3, launched from USS Yorktown to attack a Japanese carrier force approaching Midway. VT-3 found the Japanese carriers and commenced their attack through an onslaught of enemy fighters and anti aircraft fire. Twelve torpedo planes attacked and ten were shot down. Only two returned and had to ditch in the water. Three of the four crewman survived. During the attack Petty Officer Brazier was seriously wounded. As they exited the Japanese force, Brazier was asked by his pilot, Chief Aviation Pilot (CAP) Wilhelm Esders, to switch a radio setting, which would allow them to pick up a homing signal back to their carrier. Although he initially said he was unable to comply because of his wounds, Brazier somehow found a way to change the radio setting. Following that homing signal, CAP Esders found his way back to the Yorktown. However, when they arrived at Yorktown she was under attack. Esders then headed for Enterprise but ran out of fuel about 10 miles away. After ditching in the ocean, Esders was able to get both himself and his injured gunner, Petty Officer Brazier, out of the aircraft and into their life raft. It was in this raft that ARM2 Brazier succumbed to his wounds. His remains were committed to the sea. CAP Esders was rescued the next day, 5 Jun 1942.
ARM2 Brazier's family was notified of his death by telegram from the Navy Department in July 1942. He was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with a bronze star and the World War II Victory Medal.
---------------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Boyd Brazier, Aviation Radioman Second Class, United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in the Battle of Midway. As gunner of a Torpedo Squadron THREE airplane he participated in a torpedo plane attack against Japanese naval forces on 4 June 1942. Without regard for danger from intense anti-aircraft fire and overwhelming enemy fighter opposition, he vigorously and with heroic determination, defended his airplane from attacks and was mortally wounded. After receiving this wound and reporting that he was unable to continue defending his aircraft, he performed essential radio operations which enabled the pilot to return to his own force. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
---------------------------------
The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 08 Jul 1942, Wed - Page 19
Salt Lake Man Gives Life In Navy Battle
Robert Boyd Brazier, U.S. navy second class aviation radioman from Salt Lake City, has given his life in defense of his country. The official navy telegram that Mr. Brazier was killed in action was received Tuesday by the sailor's mother, Mrs. Cella (sic) Brazier of the Moxum hotel, and his widow, Mrs. Helen Squires Brazier of 1725 Eighth East street. Born in Tooele, June 13, 1916, Mr. Brazier was educated in the public schools of that city. Joining the navy in October, 1939, he had seen service in Pacific waters. He married Miss Squires in Seattle, Wash., November 28, 1941. Surviving the Utahn are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Brazier of San Pedro, Cal.; his widow, and an aunt, Miss Wynne McMahon of the Newhouse hotel.
------------------------------------
The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 23 Jul 1942, Thu - Page 15
Navy Reports Death of Utah Seaman
Washington, July 22 (UP) – One enlisted man from Utah is reported dead in the navy department's casualty list No. 8, which covers the period from July 1 to July 10. Reported dead was Robert Boyd Brazier, aviation radioman, second class, United States navy. His next of kin are listed as his wife, Mrs Helen Brazier, 1725 South Eighth East street, Salt Lake City, and his mother, Mrs, Celia Grace Brazier, Moxum hotel, Salt Lake City.
---------------------------------------
The Salt Lake Tribune (Salt Lake City, Utah) - 04 Mar 1943, Thu - Page 11
Navy Bestows DFCs Upon Two S.L. Men
Washington, March 3, (UP) – Among 21 enlisted men and one officer to receive the distinguished flying cross for heroic action in the battle of Midway were two Salt Lakers, the navy announced today. A posthumous award of the distinguished flying cross was made to Radioman First Class (sic) Robert Boyd Brazier of Salt Lake City, who was killed during the battle. Radioman First Class Harry William Nelson Jr., of Salt Lake City, now listed as missing, also received the award.
-----------------------------------------
The Ogden Standard-Examiner (Ogden, Utah) - 17 Jan 1944, Mon - Page 3
Salt Lake Mother to Christen Ship
Salt Lake City, Jan 17 (AP).
Mrs Celia A Brazier, accompanied by a sister and friend, left Saturday night for Orange, Tex., where she will participate in launching the U.S.S. Robert Brazier, a light naval craft. The ship will be named after Mrs. Brazier's son, Robert Boyd Brazier of Salt Lake City, radioman second class who was killed on June 4, 1941, in the battle of Midway.
-------------------------------------------
The USS Robert Brazier (DE-345) was a John C. Butler class destroyer escort named in his honor. The ship was sponsored by his mother, Mrs Celia Brazier. It was commissioned on 18 May 1944 in Orange, TX. Following her shakedown cruise off Bermuda USS Brazier was active in convoy escort duties in the Atlantic and Mediterranean before moving to the Pacific. She supported the invasion of the Philippines and after the war ended she returned to San Pedro, CA on 17 Dec 1945. She was decommissioned on 16 Sept 1946. She remained in the Pacific Reserve Fleet in San Diego and later in Bremerton, WA where on 1 Jan 1968 she was struck from the Navy list. Later, she was sunk as a target. USS Robert Brazier earned one battle star during WWII.
--------------------------------------------
Honor Scroll
His family also received a scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of ARM2 Brazier. The citation reads: In grateful memory of Robert Boyd BRAZIER who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. YORKTOWN, June 4, 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
-------------------------------------------------
Arizona Republic (Phoenix, Arizona) - 03 Apr 1944, Mon - Page 7
Flier, Rescuer Finally Meet
By E.V.W. Jones
Miami, Fla., Apr. 2 – (AP) –
In June, 1942, Lt. (JG) Wilhelm G. Esders, of St. Joseph, Mo., was a member of a torpedo squadron on the aircraft carrier Yorktown: Lt. Arthur J. Brassfield, of Browning, Mo., was a fighter pilot on the same ship. The two Missourians never met.
June 4, 1942, Esders and his squadron took off from the Yorktown for a point 150 miles away where a Japanese aircraft carrier was launching her dive-bombers for attacks on the Americans.
Esders scored a hit on the Nipponese ship, but intense anti-air craft fire mortally wounded his gunner [PO Robert B. Brazier] and punched countless holes in his plane. Gasoline streamed from his fuel tanks. Before he was halfway home, his gauges registered empty, and he radioed that he was alighting on the ocean. His plane nosed down, the tail above the waves. Esders released his tiny lifeboat, got the dying gunner on it, and was ready to climb aboard himself when he heard the motor of a circling plane.
Above him was a Japanese dive bomber. It circled several times, then nosed down into a dive, aimed straight for him. He was fascinated. At that moment, an American fighter streaked out of nowhere, machine guns chattering. The Japanese jerked out of the dive and sought safety in flight. Esders watched the unknown fighter over-take the enemy and send him spinning to death.
Brassfield was busy, too, that June morning. A part of the fighter cover over the Yorktown, he sent his fighter among a swarm of enemy dive-bombers and shot down two. The Japanese formation broke and the angry growls and whines of dogfights spread over the sky.
Brassfield chased one enemy craft for miles and ripped it apart, then caught sight of another, circling. Brassfield had to look hard to see what interested the Japanese: the tail of a plane and the spot of orange of a life raft on the sea.
In an instant, the fighter pilot decided his course of action. He aimed his plane at the midway point of the enemy's dive and slapped his throttle wide open as the enemy nosed down. Brassfield opened fire at 1,500 yards, much too great a distance for effective shooting. But the Japanese jerked out of the dive and tried to escape. Brassfield sped after him, sent him spinning to death.
Esders was picked up by a destroyer and eventually returned to duty. More than a year later, he was ordered to the Miami naval air station to serve as an instructor. There Lt. Stuart Ludlum interviewed him.
Brassfield, too, reported to the Miami naval station. He, too, was interviewed by Lieutenant Ludlum, who went back and read over his reports, compared them. Then Ludlum called both veterans of the battle of Midway together. "You don't realize it, but you two know each other," he told them.
--------------------------
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.
---------------
[Bio#165 compiled by Gerry Lawton, GML470/G47]
Military Hall of Honor ID#88755
Gravesite Details
Entered the service from Utah.
