Husband of Gertrude Beacher Littlefield.
Harold served as a Aviation Radioman Second Class on a Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Torpedo Squadron Six, U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6), U.S. Navy during World War II.
He resided in Bennington County, Vermont prior to the war.
Harold was declared "Missing In Action" in the Battle of Midway during the war.
He was awarded the "Distinguished Flying Cross" and the Purple Heart.
Service # 2385908
The pilot on this flight, LtJg Lloyd Thomas, was also declared "Missing In Action.
Bio by:
Russell S. "Russ" Pickett
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Below citation submitted by: G47
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Aviation Radioman Second Class Harold Francis Littlefield (NSN: 2385908), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. A free gunner and radio operator of a Torpedo Squadron SIX (VT-6) airplane in the Battle of Midway, 4 to 6 June 1942, he manned his gun and continued to return fire of Japanese fighters with such courage and utter disregard for personal safety that he enabled the pilot to press home his attack in the face of continued fighter opposition. It is difficult to conceive of a situation where a free gunner would be forced to fight against such desperate odds as were encountered in this attack. The courage and devotion to duty he displayed were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders:
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
~~~~~~~~
Father of one.
~~~~~~~~
Harold Francis Littlefield was the son of Myron Jay Littlefield and Bertha May Mason who were married in Bennington, VT on 27 Sept 1913. They were also the parents of at least three other children: Hazel Bertha, Lucinda May, and Lawrence Robert Littlefield.
Harold married Gertrude Beecher Forehand on 15 April 1939 in South Mills, Camden, NC. They were the parents of at least one child: Harold Francis Littlefield Jr born in Norfolk, VA on 18 Jan 1942. After Harold's death at Midway, Bertha married William Herman Zwicker on 17 Sep 1943 in South Mills, Camden, NC. She died in 2009 in Portsmouth, VA
Harold F. Littlefield, who had completed the eighth grade level of education, submitted an application for enlistment into the US Navy on 20 Oct 1937 in Schenectady, Schenectady, NY. After his mother, Bertha May Harbour, signed the consent form on 20 Nov 1937, Littlefield signed a "minority" enlistment for four years as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.) in the US Navy (238-59-08) on 4 Jan 1938 at the Naval Recruiting Station, Albany, NY. He was transferred to the Naval Training Station (NTS), Newport, RI for basic training. After completing basic training on 01 April 1939, Littlefield took 12 days of recruit leave. Littlefield detached from NTS on 3 May 1938, and he transferred on 04 May 1942 to the Receiving Station, Norfolk, VA for further transfer to the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise's (CV-6) precommissioning unit.
The Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938, and Littlefield reported on board for duty. He was transferred to Torpedo Squadron Six (VT-6) that was attached to the Enterprise on 20 Sep 1938 for duty. He was advanced in rate from A.S. to Seaman Second Class (S2c) the same day. During 1939, Enterprise and her embarked squadrons conducted shake down cruises and workup exercises at various times. While the ship was inport the squadrons were temporarily based ashore at their assigned airfields. Their tempo of operations increased during 1940. He was advanced in rate to Seaman First Class (S1c) on 16 Feb 1940. On 16 Jun 1940, Littlefield received orders to duty involving regular and frequent aerial flights in aircraft as an aircraft radioman. On 01 Oct 1940, Littlefield completed instruction in belting and loading ammunition, cleaning, servicing, and upkeep of the Browning automatic machine gun. He was advanced in rate to Radioman Third Class (RM3) on 16 Nov 1940.
During the months prior to 7 Dec 1941, and the entry by the United States into WWII, Enterprise shuttled Army Air Force P-39s and P-40s, as well as, Navy aircraft from US West Coast ports to Pearl Harbor and beyond. On 28 Nov 1941, Enterprise left San Diego with a cargo of Marine Fighting Squadron 211 (VMF-211) aircraft and pilots destined for Wake Island. The Marine pilots and their planes flew from Enterprise to Wake Island on 02 Dec 1941. Enterprise was scheduled to arrive back in Pearl Harbor on 06 Dec, but was delayed due to inclement weather. Fortunately, she wasn't inport on the morning of 07 Dec but arrived later that evening. Littlefield was honorably discharged from the Navy on 08 Dec 1941. He reenlisted as an RM3 on 09 Dec 1941 at Pearl Harbor, HI for a period of four years. The next day, he qualified for duty as an Aircraft Radioman. Several weeks later on 01 Jan 1942, RM3 Littlefield was advanced in rate to Radioman Second Class (RM2).
In the first five months of 1942, Enterprise and her Air Group participated in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands and Wake Island operations in Feb 1942. On 01 Feb 1942, VT-6 attacked Japanese forces on Kwajalein. Petty Officer Littlefield participated in that attack as a member of a flight crew. He changed his rate on 01 March 1942 from RM2 to Aviation Radioman Second Class (ARM2). In March, Enterprise’s Air Group attacked enemy installations on Wake and Marcus Islands, and in April, she supported the Doolittle raid. In early May, Enterprise and the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-8) were sent to the South Pacific to assist the aircraft carriers USS Lexington (CV--2) and USS Yorktown (CV-5) who were engaged in the battle of the Coral Sea. However, before the ships arrived on-scene the battle of the Coral Sea was over. After participating in additional operations in the Central Pacific, Enterprise returned to Pearl Harbor on 26 May and began intensive preparations to meet an expected Japanese thrust at Midway Island. On 28 May, Enterprise and Hornet sortied from Pearl Harbor and preceeded toward Midway.
On the morning of 4 Jun 1942, pilot Ltjg Lloyd Thomas and his radioman-gunner Aviation Radioman Second Class Harold Francis Littlefield launched their torpedo plane from USS Enterprise (CV-6) along with other members of VT-6 and Air Group Six to attack the Japanese striking force that was approaching Midway. Separated from their covering fighter protection, VT-6 comprised of 14 torpedo planes pressed their attack even though overwhelmed by superior numbers of Japanese fighter aircraft and heavy anti-aircraft fire. One by one the planes of VT-6 were shot down. Of the 14 torpedo planes that attacked the Japanese carriers from Enterprise only 4 returned. Ltjg Thomas and Petty Officer Littlefield did not return from their mission. According to the USS Enterprise after action report for the Battle of Midway dated 8 Jun 1942 for VT-6, Ltjg L. Thomas, USN and ARM2 H.F. Littlefield, USN were listed among the personnel losses. Their remains were unrecoverable. The Navy Dept. sent a telegram to Littlefield's wife, Gertrude, dated 17 Jun 1942, to inform her that her husband was missing in action. Littlefield and his pilot were declared "presumed dead" on 5 Jun 1943.
In a letter sent by the Acting Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron Six to the Commander in Chief, US Pacific Fleet, dated 10 Jun 1942, Petty Officer Littlefield was recommended for the award of the Navy Cross. After review, CINCPACFLT recommended that Littlefield be posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). He was also posthumously awarded the Purple Heart medal, Presidential Unit citation, American Defense Service Medal with "Fleet" clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two battle stars and the World War II Victory Medal. His family was also presented with a Presidential commemoration.
------------------------------
Of the 14 Torpedo Bombers from VT-6 that flew against the Japanese on 4 Jan 1942 only four returned to Enterprise. Machinst Albert Walter Winchell (NAP), and his gunner, Aviation Radioman 3rd Class Douglas M.Cossitt, made a water landing before sighting Enterprise. They survived 17 days on the open seas in a rubber raft before being rescued by a Patrol Squadron 24 PBY on 21 Jun 1942, some 360 miles northward of Midway. In all, five VT-6 crews survived the morning attack.
---------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to HAROLD F. LITTLEFIELD, AVIATION RADIOMAN SECOND CLASS UNITED STATES NAVY for service as set forth in the following CITATION:
"For extraordinary achievement and heroic conduct in aerial flight as a free gunner and radio operator of an airplane in Torpedo Squadron SIX in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway, June 4-6, 1942. LITTLEFIELD's unflinching devotion to duty and his courageous determination in returning the fire of enemy Japanese fighters enabled his pilot to press home an attack against concentrated anti-aircraft fire and violent fighter opposition. His marked integrity in maintaining continuous fire in the face of such tremendous odds and his complete disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
General Orders: Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943) [citation taken from his service record]
----------------------------
USS Enterprise Presidential Unit citation (1942)
For consistently outstanding performance and distinguished achievement during repeated action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific war area, 7 December 1941, to 15 November 1942. Participating in nearly every major carrier engagement in the first year of the war, the Enterprise and her air group, exclusive of far-flung destruction of hostile shore installations throughout the battle area, did sink or damage on her own a total of 35 Japanese vessels and shot down a total of 185 Japanese aircraft. Her aggressive spirit and superb combat efficiency are fitting tribute to the officers and men who so gallantly established her as an ahead bulwark in the defense of the American nation.
---------------------------
His family also received an honor scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of Petty Officer Littlefield. The commemoration reads: In grateful memory of Harold Francis Littlefield who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S.ENTERPRISE, 5 JUNE 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
(*Presumed dead on 5 Jun 1943. Actual date gone missing was 4 Jun 1942.)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Those pilots and crew of VT-6 that were killed in action on 04 June 1942 included:
1) Lt Arthur Vincent Ely (VT-6 XO) and his gunner, RM3Arthur Richard Lindgren
2) Lt Paul James Riley and his gunner, ARM2 Edwin John Mushinski
3) Ltjg John Thomas Eversole and his gunner, RM2 John Udell Lane
4) Ltjg Randolph Mitchell Holder and his gunner, ARM3 Gregory Joseph Durawa
5) Ltjg Severin Louis Rombach and his gunner, ARM2 Wilburn Forrest Glenn
6) Ltjg Lloyd Thomas and his gunner, ARM2 Harold Francis Littlefield
7) Ensign John Wiley Brock and his gunner, ARM3 John Melville Blundell
8) Ensign Flourenoy Glenn Hodges and his gunner, RM2 John Hail Bates
9) Lcdr Eugene Elbert Lindsey (CO VT-6) and his gunner, ARMC Charles Tilden Grenat
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contrary to what some researchers have stated, neither Ltjg Holder nor any of the Navy/Marine Corps aviators who engaged in aerial combat during the Air Battle of Midway were/are eligible for the Combat Action Ribbon (CAR). See SecNavInst 1650.1H (Navy/Marine Corps Awards Manual dated 22 Aug 2006) for award criteria details.
contrib#47281148
~~~~~~~~~
Harold served as a Aviation Radioman Second Class on a Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Torpedo Squadron Six, U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6), U.S. Navy during World War II.
He resided in Bennington County, Vermont prior to the war.
Harold was declared "Missing In Action" in the Battle of Midway during the war.
He was awarded the "Distinguished Flying Cross" and the Purple Heart.
Service # 2385908
The pilot on this flight, LtJg Lloyd Thomas, was also declared "Missing In Action.
Bio by:
Russell S. "Russ" Pickett
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Below citation submitted by: G47
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Aviation Radioman Second Class Harold Francis Littlefield (NSN: 2385908), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. A free gunner and radio operator of a Torpedo Squadron SIX (VT-6) airplane in the Battle of Midway, 4 to 6 June 1942, he manned his gun and continued to return fire of Japanese fighters with such courage and utter disregard for personal safety that he enabled the pilot to press home his attack in the face of continued fighter opposition. It is difficult to conceive of a situation where a free gunner would be forced to fight against such desperate odds as were encountered in this attack. The courage and devotion to duty he displayed were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders:
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
~~~~~~~~
Father of one.
~~~~~~~~
Harold Francis Littlefield was the son of Myron Jay Littlefield and Bertha May Mason who were married in Bennington, VT on 27 Sept 1913. They were also the parents of at least three other children: Hazel Bertha, Lucinda May, and Lawrence Robert Littlefield.
Harold married Gertrude Beecher Forehand on 15 April 1939 in South Mills, Camden, NC. They were the parents of at least one child: Harold Francis Littlefield Jr born in Norfolk, VA on 18 Jan 1942. After Harold's death at Midway, Bertha married William Herman Zwicker on 17 Sep 1943 in South Mills, Camden, NC. She died in 2009 in Portsmouth, VA
Harold F. Littlefield, who had completed the eighth grade level of education, submitted an application for enlistment into the US Navy on 20 Oct 1937 in Schenectady, Schenectady, NY. After his mother, Bertha May Harbour, signed the consent form on 20 Nov 1937, Littlefield signed a "minority" enlistment for four years as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.) in the US Navy (238-59-08) on 4 Jan 1938 at the Naval Recruiting Station, Albany, NY. He was transferred to the Naval Training Station (NTS), Newport, RI for basic training. After completing basic training on 01 April 1939, Littlefield took 12 days of recruit leave. Littlefield detached from NTS on 3 May 1938, and he transferred on 04 May 1942 to the Receiving Station, Norfolk, VA for further transfer to the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise's (CV-6) precommissioning unit.
The Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938, and Littlefield reported on board for duty. He was transferred to Torpedo Squadron Six (VT-6) that was attached to the Enterprise on 20 Sep 1938 for duty. He was advanced in rate from A.S. to Seaman Second Class (S2c) the same day. During 1939, Enterprise and her embarked squadrons conducted shake down cruises and workup exercises at various times. While the ship was inport the squadrons were temporarily based ashore at their assigned airfields. Their tempo of operations increased during 1940. He was advanced in rate to Seaman First Class (S1c) on 16 Feb 1940. On 16 Jun 1940, Littlefield received orders to duty involving regular and frequent aerial flights in aircraft as an aircraft radioman. On 01 Oct 1940, Littlefield completed instruction in belting and loading ammunition, cleaning, servicing, and upkeep of the Browning automatic machine gun. He was advanced in rate to Radioman Third Class (RM3) on 16 Nov 1940.
During the months prior to 7 Dec 1941, and the entry by the United States into WWII, Enterprise shuttled Army Air Force P-39s and P-40s, as well as, Navy aircraft from US West Coast ports to Pearl Harbor and beyond. On 28 Nov 1941, Enterprise left San Diego with a cargo of Marine Fighting Squadron 211 (VMF-211) aircraft and pilots destined for Wake Island. The Marine pilots and their planes flew from Enterprise to Wake Island on 02 Dec 1941. Enterprise was scheduled to arrive back in Pearl Harbor on 06 Dec, but was delayed due to inclement weather. Fortunately, she wasn't inport on the morning of 07 Dec but arrived later that evening. Littlefield was honorably discharged from the Navy on 08 Dec 1941. He reenlisted as an RM3 on 09 Dec 1941 at Pearl Harbor, HI for a period of four years. The next day, he qualified for duty as an Aircraft Radioman. Several weeks later on 01 Jan 1942, RM3 Littlefield was advanced in rate to Radioman Second Class (RM2).
In the first five months of 1942, Enterprise and her Air Group participated in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands and Wake Island operations in Feb 1942. On 01 Feb 1942, VT-6 attacked Japanese forces on Kwajalein. Petty Officer Littlefield participated in that attack as a member of a flight crew. He changed his rate on 01 March 1942 from RM2 to Aviation Radioman Second Class (ARM2). In March, Enterprise’s Air Group attacked enemy installations on Wake and Marcus Islands, and in April, she supported the Doolittle raid. In early May, Enterprise and the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-8) were sent to the South Pacific to assist the aircraft carriers USS Lexington (CV--2) and USS Yorktown (CV-5) who were engaged in the battle of the Coral Sea. However, before the ships arrived on-scene the battle of the Coral Sea was over. After participating in additional operations in the Central Pacific, Enterprise returned to Pearl Harbor on 26 May and began intensive preparations to meet an expected Japanese thrust at Midway Island. On 28 May, Enterprise and Hornet sortied from Pearl Harbor and preceeded toward Midway.
On the morning of 4 Jun 1942, pilot Ltjg Lloyd Thomas and his radioman-gunner Aviation Radioman Second Class Harold Francis Littlefield launched their torpedo plane from USS Enterprise (CV-6) along with other members of VT-6 and Air Group Six to attack the Japanese striking force that was approaching Midway. Separated from their covering fighter protection, VT-6 comprised of 14 torpedo planes pressed their attack even though overwhelmed by superior numbers of Japanese fighter aircraft and heavy anti-aircraft fire. One by one the planes of VT-6 were shot down. Of the 14 torpedo planes that attacked the Japanese carriers from Enterprise only 4 returned. Ltjg Thomas and Petty Officer Littlefield did not return from their mission. According to the USS Enterprise after action report for the Battle of Midway dated 8 Jun 1942 for VT-6, Ltjg L. Thomas, USN and ARM2 H.F. Littlefield, USN were listed among the personnel losses. Their remains were unrecoverable. The Navy Dept. sent a telegram to Littlefield's wife, Gertrude, dated 17 Jun 1942, to inform her that her husband was missing in action. Littlefield and his pilot were declared "presumed dead" on 5 Jun 1943.
In a letter sent by the Acting Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron Six to the Commander in Chief, US Pacific Fleet, dated 10 Jun 1942, Petty Officer Littlefield was recommended for the award of the Navy Cross. After review, CINCPACFLT recommended that Littlefield be posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). He was also posthumously awarded the Purple Heart medal, Presidential Unit citation, American Defense Service Medal with "Fleet" clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two battle stars and the World War II Victory Medal. His family was also presented with a Presidential commemoration.
------------------------------
Of the 14 Torpedo Bombers from VT-6 that flew against the Japanese on 4 Jan 1942 only four returned to Enterprise. Machinst Albert Walter Winchell (NAP), and his gunner, Aviation Radioman 3rd Class Douglas M.Cossitt, made a water landing before sighting Enterprise. They survived 17 days on the open seas in a rubber raft before being rescued by a Patrol Squadron 24 PBY on 21 Jun 1942, some 360 miles northward of Midway. In all, five VT-6 crews survived the morning attack.
---------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to HAROLD F. LITTLEFIELD, AVIATION RADIOMAN SECOND CLASS UNITED STATES NAVY for service as set forth in the following CITATION:
"For extraordinary achievement and heroic conduct in aerial flight as a free gunner and radio operator of an airplane in Torpedo Squadron SIX in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway, June 4-6, 1942. LITTLEFIELD's unflinching devotion to duty and his courageous determination in returning the fire of enemy Japanese fighters enabled his pilot to press home an attack against concentrated anti-aircraft fire and violent fighter opposition. His marked integrity in maintaining continuous fire in the face of such tremendous odds and his complete disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
General Orders: Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943) [citation taken from his service record]
----------------------------
USS Enterprise Presidential Unit citation (1942)
For consistently outstanding performance and distinguished achievement during repeated action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific war area, 7 December 1941, to 15 November 1942. Participating in nearly every major carrier engagement in the first year of the war, the Enterprise and her air group, exclusive of far-flung destruction of hostile shore installations throughout the battle area, did sink or damage on her own a total of 35 Japanese vessels and shot down a total of 185 Japanese aircraft. Her aggressive spirit and superb combat efficiency are fitting tribute to the officers and men who so gallantly established her as an ahead bulwark in the defense of the American nation.
---------------------------
His family also received an honor scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of Petty Officer Littlefield. The commemoration reads: In grateful memory of Harold Francis Littlefield who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S.ENTERPRISE, 5 JUNE 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
(*Presumed dead on 5 Jun 1943. Actual date gone missing was 4 Jun 1942.)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Those pilots and crew of VT-6 that were killed in action on 04 June 1942 included:
1) Lt Arthur Vincent Ely (VT-6 XO) and his gunner, RM3Arthur Richard Lindgren
2) Lt Paul James Riley and his gunner, ARM2 Edwin John Mushinski
3) Ltjg John Thomas Eversole and his gunner, RM2 John Udell Lane
4) Ltjg Randolph Mitchell Holder and his gunner, ARM3 Gregory Joseph Durawa
5) Ltjg Severin Louis Rombach and his gunner, ARM2 Wilburn Forrest Glenn
6) Ltjg Lloyd Thomas and his gunner, ARM2 Harold Francis Littlefield
7) Ensign John Wiley Brock and his gunner, ARM3 John Melville Blundell
8) Ensign Flourenoy Glenn Hodges and his gunner, RM2 John Hail Bates
9) Lcdr Eugene Elbert Lindsey (CO VT-6) and his gunner, ARMC Charles Tilden Grenat
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contrary to what some researchers have stated, neither Ltjg Holder nor any of the Navy/Marine Corps aviators who engaged in aerial combat during the Air Battle of Midway were/are eligible for the Combat Action Ribbon (CAR). See SecNavInst 1650.1H (Navy/Marine Corps Awards Manual dated 22 Aug 2006) for award criteria details.
contrib#47281148
~~~~~~~~~
Husband of Gertrude Beacher Littlefield.
Harold served as a Aviation Radioman Second Class on a Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Torpedo Squadron Six, U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6), U.S. Navy during World War II.
He resided in Bennington County, Vermont prior to the war.
Harold was declared "Missing In Action" in the Battle of Midway during the war.
He was awarded the "Distinguished Flying Cross" and the Purple Heart.
Service # 2385908
The pilot on this flight, LtJg Lloyd Thomas, was also declared "Missing In Action.
Bio by:
Russell S. "Russ" Pickett
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Below citation submitted by: G47
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Aviation Radioman Second Class Harold Francis Littlefield (NSN: 2385908), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. A free gunner and radio operator of a Torpedo Squadron SIX (VT-6) airplane in the Battle of Midway, 4 to 6 June 1942, he manned his gun and continued to return fire of Japanese fighters with such courage and utter disregard for personal safety that he enabled the pilot to press home his attack in the face of continued fighter opposition. It is difficult to conceive of a situation where a free gunner would be forced to fight against such desperate odds as were encountered in this attack. The courage and devotion to duty he displayed were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders:
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
~~~~~~~~
Father of one.
~~~~~~~~
Harold Francis Littlefield was the son of Myron Jay Littlefield and Bertha May Mason who were married in Bennington, VT on 27 Sept 1913. They were also the parents of at least three other children: Hazel Bertha, Lucinda May, and Lawrence Robert Littlefield.
Harold married Gertrude Beecher Forehand on 15 April 1939 in South Mills, Camden, NC. They were the parents of at least one child: Harold Francis Littlefield Jr born in Norfolk, VA on 18 Jan 1942. After Harold's death at Midway, Bertha married William Herman Zwicker on 17 Sep 1943 in South Mills, Camden, NC. She died in 2009 in Portsmouth, VA
Harold F. Littlefield, who had completed the eighth grade level of education, submitted an application for enlistment into the US Navy on 20 Oct 1937 in Schenectady, Schenectady, NY. After his mother, Bertha May Harbour, signed the consent form on 20 Nov 1937, Littlefield signed a "minority" enlistment for four years as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.) in the US Navy (238-59-08) on 4 Jan 1938 at the Naval Recruiting Station, Albany, NY. He was transferred to the Naval Training Station (NTS), Newport, RI for basic training. After completing basic training on 01 April 1939, Littlefield took 12 days of recruit leave. Littlefield detached from NTS on 3 May 1938, and he transferred on 04 May 1942 to the Receiving Station, Norfolk, VA for further transfer to the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise's (CV-6) precommissioning unit.
The Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938, and Littlefield reported on board for duty. He was transferred to Torpedo Squadron Six (VT-6) that was attached to the Enterprise on 20 Sep 1938 for duty. He was advanced in rate from A.S. to Seaman Second Class (S2c) the same day. During 1939, Enterprise and her embarked squadrons conducted shake down cruises and workup exercises at various times. While the ship was inport the squadrons were temporarily based ashore at their assigned airfields. Their tempo of operations increased during 1940. He was advanced in rate to Seaman First Class (S1c) on 16 Feb 1940. On 16 Jun 1940, Littlefield received orders to duty involving regular and frequent aerial flights in aircraft as an aircraft radioman. On 01 Oct 1940, Littlefield completed instruction in belting and loading ammunition, cleaning, servicing, and upkeep of the Browning automatic machine gun. He was advanced in rate to Radioman Third Class (RM3) on 16 Nov 1940.
During the months prior to 7 Dec 1941, and the entry by the United States into WWII, Enterprise shuttled Army Air Force P-39s and P-40s, as well as, Navy aircraft from US West Coast ports to Pearl Harbor and beyond. On 28 Nov 1941, Enterprise left San Diego with a cargo of Marine Fighting Squadron 211 (VMF-211) aircraft and pilots destined for Wake Island. The Marine pilots and their planes flew from Enterprise to Wake Island on 02 Dec 1941. Enterprise was scheduled to arrive back in Pearl Harbor on 06 Dec, but was delayed due to inclement weather. Fortunately, she wasn't inport on the morning of 07 Dec but arrived later that evening. Littlefield was honorably discharged from the Navy on 08 Dec 1941. He reenlisted as an RM3 on 09 Dec 1941 at Pearl Harbor, HI for a period of four years. The next day, he qualified for duty as an Aircraft Radioman. Several weeks later on 01 Jan 1942, RM3 Littlefield was advanced in rate to Radioman Second Class (RM2).
In the first five months of 1942, Enterprise and her Air Group participated in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands and Wake Island operations in Feb 1942. On 01 Feb 1942, VT-6 attacked Japanese forces on Kwajalein. Petty Officer Littlefield participated in that attack as a member of a flight crew. He changed his rate on 01 March 1942 from RM2 to Aviation Radioman Second Class (ARM2). In March, Enterprise’s Air Group attacked enemy installations on Wake and Marcus Islands, and in April, she supported the Doolittle raid. In early May, Enterprise and the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-8) were sent to the South Pacific to assist the aircraft carriers USS Lexington (CV--2) and USS Yorktown (CV-5) who were engaged in the battle of the Coral Sea. However, before the ships arrived on-scene the battle of the Coral Sea was over. After participating in additional operations in the Central Pacific, Enterprise returned to Pearl Harbor on 26 May and began intensive preparations to meet an expected Japanese thrust at Midway Island. On 28 May, Enterprise and Hornet sortied from Pearl Harbor and preceeded toward Midway.
On the morning of 4 Jun 1942, pilot Ltjg Lloyd Thomas and his radioman-gunner Aviation Radioman Second Class Harold Francis Littlefield launched their torpedo plane from USS Enterprise (CV-6) along with other members of VT-6 and Air Group Six to attack the Japanese striking force that was approaching Midway. Separated from their covering fighter protection, VT-6 comprised of 14 torpedo planes pressed their attack even though overwhelmed by superior numbers of Japanese fighter aircraft and heavy anti-aircraft fire. One by one the planes of VT-6 were shot down. Of the 14 torpedo planes that attacked the Japanese carriers from Enterprise only 4 returned. Ltjg Thomas and Petty Officer Littlefield did not return from their mission. According to the USS Enterprise after action report for the Battle of Midway dated 8 Jun 1942 for VT-6, Ltjg L. Thomas, USN and ARM2 H.F. Littlefield, USN were listed among the personnel losses. Their remains were unrecoverable. The Navy Dept. sent a telegram to Littlefield's wife, Gertrude, dated 17 Jun 1942, to inform her that her husband was missing in action. Littlefield and his pilot were declared "presumed dead" on 5 Jun 1943.
In a letter sent by the Acting Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron Six to the Commander in Chief, US Pacific Fleet, dated 10 Jun 1942, Petty Officer Littlefield was recommended for the award of the Navy Cross. After review, CINCPACFLT recommended that Littlefield be posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). He was also posthumously awarded the Purple Heart medal, Presidential Unit citation, American Defense Service Medal with "Fleet" clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two battle stars and the World War II Victory Medal. His family was also presented with a Presidential commemoration.
------------------------------
Of the 14 Torpedo Bombers from VT-6 that flew against the Japanese on 4 Jan 1942 only four returned to Enterprise. Machinst Albert Walter Winchell (NAP), and his gunner, Aviation Radioman 3rd Class Douglas M.Cossitt, made a water landing before sighting Enterprise. They survived 17 days on the open seas in a rubber raft before being rescued by a Patrol Squadron 24 PBY on 21 Jun 1942, some 360 miles northward of Midway. In all, five VT-6 crews survived the morning attack.
---------------------------------
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to HAROLD F. LITTLEFIELD, AVIATION RADIOMAN SECOND CLASS UNITED STATES NAVY for service as set forth in the following CITATION:
"For extraordinary achievement and heroic conduct in aerial flight as a free gunner and radio operator of an airplane in Torpedo Squadron SIX in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway, June 4-6, 1942. LITTLEFIELD's unflinching devotion to duty and his courageous determination in returning the fire of enemy Japanese fighters enabled his pilot to press home an attack against concentrated anti-aircraft fire and violent fighter opposition. His marked integrity in maintaining continuous fire in the face of such tremendous odds and his complete disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
General Orders: Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943) [citation taken from his service record]
----------------------------
USS Enterprise Presidential Unit citation (1942)
For consistently outstanding performance and distinguished achievement during repeated action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific war area, 7 December 1941, to 15 November 1942. Participating in nearly every major carrier engagement in the first year of the war, the Enterprise and her air group, exclusive of far-flung destruction of hostile shore installations throughout the battle area, did sink or damage on her own a total of 35 Japanese vessels and shot down a total of 185 Japanese aircraft. Her aggressive spirit and superb combat efficiency are fitting tribute to the officers and men who so gallantly established her as an ahead bulwark in the defense of the American nation.
---------------------------
His family also received an honor scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of Petty Officer Littlefield. The commemoration reads: In grateful memory of Harold Francis Littlefield who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S.ENTERPRISE, 5 JUNE 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
(*Presumed dead on 5 Jun 1943. Actual date gone missing was 4 Jun 1942.)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Those pilots and crew of VT-6 that were killed in action on 04 June 1942 included:
1) Lt Arthur Vincent Ely (VT-6 XO) and his gunner, RM3Arthur Richard Lindgren
2) Lt Paul James Riley and his gunner, ARM2 Edwin John Mushinski
3) Ltjg John Thomas Eversole and his gunner, RM2 John Udell Lane
4) Ltjg Randolph Mitchell Holder and his gunner, ARM3 Gregory Joseph Durawa
5) Ltjg Severin Louis Rombach and his gunner, ARM2 Wilburn Forrest Glenn
6) Ltjg Lloyd Thomas and his gunner, ARM2 Harold Francis Littlefield
7) Ensign John Wiley Brock and his gunner, ARM3 John Melville Blundell
8) Ensign Flourenoy Glenn Hodges and his gunner, RM2 John Hail Bates
9) Lcdr Eugene Elbert Lindsey (CO VT-6) and his gunner, ARMC Charles Tilden Grenat
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Contrary to what some researchers have stated, neither Ltjg Holder nor any of the Navy/Marine Corps aviators who engaged in aerial combat during the Air Battle of Midway were/are eligible for the Combat Action Ribbon (CAR). See SecNavInst 1650.1H (Navy/Marine Corps Awards Manual dated 22 Aug 2006) for award criteria details.
contrib#47281148
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Harold served as a Aviation Radioman Second Class on a Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Torpedo Squadron Six, U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6), U.S. Navy during World War II.
He resided in Bennington County, Vermont prior to the war.
Harold was declared "Missing In Action" in the Battle of Midway during the war.
He was awarded the "Distinguished Flying Cross" and the Purple Heart.
Service # 2385908
The pilot on this flight, LtJg Lloyd Thomas, was also declared "Missing In Action.
Bio by:
Russell S. "Russ" Pickett
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Below citation submitted by: G47
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Aviation Radioman Second Class Harold Francis Littlefield (NSN: 2385908), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. A free gunner and radio operator of a Torpedo Squadron SIX (VT-6) airplane in the Battle of Midway, 4 to 6 June 1942, he manned his gun and continued to return fire of Japanese fighters with such courage and utter disregard for personal safety that he enabled the pilot to press home his attack in the face of continued fighter opposition. It is difficult to conceive of a situation where a free gunner would be forced to fight against such desperate odds as were encountered in this attack. The courage and devotion to duty he displayed were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders:
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
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Father of one.
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Harold Francis Littlefield was the son of Myron Jay Littlefield and Bertha May Mason who were married in Bennington, VT on 27 Sept 1913. They were also the parents of at least three other children: Hazel Bertha, Lucinda May, and Lawrence Robert Littlefield.
Harold married Gertrude Beecher Forehand on 15 April 1939 in South Mills, Camden, NC. They were the parents of at least one child: Harold Francis Littlefield Jr born in Norfolk, VA on 18 Jan 1942. After Harold's death at Midway, Bertha married William Herman Zwicker on 17 Sep 1943 in South Mills, Camden, NC. She died in 2009 in Portsmouth, VA
Harold F. Littlefield, who had completed the eighth grade level of education, submitted an application for enlistment into the US Navy on 20 Oct 1937 in Schenectady, Schenectady, NY. After his mother, Bertha May Harbour, signed the consent form on 20 Nov 1937, Littlefield signed a "minority" enlistment for four years as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.) in the US Navy (238-59-08) on 4 Jan 1938 at the Naval Recruiting Station, Albany, NY. He was transferred to the Naval Training Station (NTS), Newport, RI for basic training. After completing basic training on 01 April 1939, Littlefield took 12 days of recruit leave. Littlefield detached from NTS on 3 May 1938, and he transferred on 04 May 1942 to the Receiving Station, Norfolk, VA for further transfer to the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise's (CV-6) precommissioning unit.
The Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938, and Littlefield reported on board for duty. He was transferred to Torpedo Squadron Six (VT-6) that was attached to the Enterprise on 20 Sep 1938 for duty. He was advanced in rate from A.S. to Seaman Second Class (S2c) the same day. During 1939, Enterprise and her embarked squadrons conducted shake down cruises and workup exercises at various times. While the ship was inport the squadrons were temporarily based ashore at their assigned airfields. Their tempo of operations increased during 1940. He was advanced in rate to Seaman First Class (S1c) on 16 Feb 1940. On 16 Jun 1940, Littlefield received orders to duty involving regular and frequent aerial flights in aircraft as an aircraft radioman. On 01 Oct 1940, Littlefield completed instruction in belting and loading ammunition, cleaning, servicing, and upkeep of the Browning automatic machine gun. He was advanced in rate to Radioman Third Class (RM3) on 16 Nov 1940.
During the months prior to 7 Dec 1941, and the entry by the United States into WWII, Enterprise shuttled Army Air Force P-39s and P-40s, as well as, Navy aircraft from US West Coast ports to Pearl Harbor and beyond. On 28 Nov 1941, Enterprise left San Diego with a cargo of Marine Fighting Squadron 211 (VMF-211) aircraft and pilots destined for Wake Island. The Marine pilots and their planes flew from Enterprise to Wake Island on 02 Dec 1941. Enterprise was scheduled to arrive back in Pearl Harbor on 06 Dec, but was delayed due to inclement weather. Fortunately, she wasn't inport on the morning of 07 Dec but arrived later that evening. Littlefield was honorably discharged from the Navy on 08 Dec 1941. He reenlisted as an RM3 on 09 Dec 1941 at Pearl Harbor, HI for a period of four years. The next day, he qualified for duty as an Aircraft Radioman. Several weeks later on 01 Jan 1942, RM3 Littlefield was advanced in rate to Radioman Second Class (RM2).
In the first five months of 1942, Enterprise and her Air Group participated in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands and Wake Island operations in Feb 1942. On 01 Feb 1942, VT-6 attacked Japanese forces on Kwajalein. Petty Officer Littlefield participated in that attack as a member of a flight crew. He changed his rate on 01 March 1942 from RM2 to Aviation Radioman Second Class (ARM2). In March, Enterprise’s Air Group attacked enemy installations on Wake and Marcus Islands, and in April, she supported the Doolittle raid. In early May, Enterprise and the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-8) were sent to the South Pacific to assist the aircraft carriers USS Lexington (CV--2) and USS Yorktown (CV-5) who were engaged in the battle of the Coral Sea. However, before the ships arrived on-scene the battle of the Coral Sea was over. After participating in additional operations in the Central Pacific, Enterprise returned to Pearl Harbor on 26 May and began intensive preparations to meet an expected Japanese thrust at Midway Island. On 28 May, Enterprise and Hornet sortied from Pearl Harbor and preceeded toward Midway.
On the morning of 4 Jun 1942, pilot Ltjg Lloyd Thomas and his radioman-gunner Aviation Radioman Second Class Harold Francis Littlefield launched their torpedo plane from USS Enterprise (CV-6) along with other members of VT-6 and Air Group Six to attack the Japanese striking force that was approaching Midway. Separated from their covering fighter protection, VT-6 comprised of 14 torpedo planes pressed their attack even though overwhelmed by superior numbers of Japanese fighter aircraft and heavy anti-aircraft fire. One by one the planes of VT-6 were shot down. Of the 14 torpedo planes that attacked the Japanese carriers from Enterprise only 4 returned. Ltjg Thomas and Petty Officer Littlefield did not return from their mission. According to the USS Enterprise after action report for the Battle of Midway dated 8 Jun 1942 for VT-6, Ltjg L. Thomas, USN and ARM2 H.F. Littlefield, USN were listed among the personnel losses. Their remains were unrecoverable. The Navy Dept. sent a telegram to Littlefield's wife, Gertrude, dated 17 Jun 1942, to inform her that her husband was missing in action. Littlefield and his pilot were declared "presumed dead" on 5 Jun 1943.
In a letter sent by the Acting Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron Six to the Commander in Chief, US Pacific Fleet, dated 10 Jun 1942, Petty Officer Littlefield was recommended for the award of the Navy Cross. After review, CINCPACFLT recommended that Littlefield be posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). He was also posthumously awarded the Purple Heart medal, Presidential Unit citation, American Defense Service Medal with "Fleet" clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two battle stars and the World War II Victory Medal. His family was also presented with a Presidential commemoration.
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Of the 14 Torpedo Bombers from VT-6 that flew against the Japanese on 4 Jan 1942 only four returned to Enterprise. Machinst Albert Walter Winchell (NAP), and his gunner, Aviation Radioman 3rd Class Douglas M.Cossitt, made a water landing before sighting Enterprise. They survived 17 days on the open seas in a rubber raft before being rescued by a Patrol Squadron 24 PBY on 21 Jun 1942, some 360 miles northward of Midway. In all, five VT-6 crews survived the morning attack.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to HAROLD F. LITTLEFIELD, AVIATION RADIOMAN SECOND CLASS UNITED STATES NAVY for service as set forth in the following CITATION:
"For extraordinary achievement and heroic conduct in aerial flight as a free gunner and radio operator of an airplane in Torpedo Squadron SIX in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway, June 4-6, 1942. LITTLEFIELD's unflinching devotion to duty and his courageous determination in returning the fire of enemy Japanese fighters enabled his pilot to press home an attack against concentrated anti-aircraft fire and violent fighter opposition. His marked integrity in maintaining continuous fire in the face of such tremendous odds and his complete disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
General Orders: Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943) [citation taken from his service record]
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USS Enterprise Presidential Unit citation (1942)
For consistently outstanding performance and distinguished achievement during repeated action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific war area, 7 December 1941, to 15 November 1942. Participating in nearly every major carrier engagement in the first year of the war, the Enterprise and her air group, exclusive of far-flung destruction of hostile shore installations throughout the battle area, did sink or damage on her own a total of 35 Japanese vessels and shot down a total of 185 Japanese aircraft. Her aggressive spirit and superb combat efficiency are fitting tribute to the officers and men who so gallantly established her as an ahead bulwark in the defense of the American nation.
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His family also received an honor scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of Petty Officer Littlefield. The commemoration reads: In grateful memory of Harold Francis Littlefield who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S.ENTERPRISE, 5 JUNE 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
(*Presumed dead on 5 Jun 1943. Actual date gone missing was 4 Jun 1942.)
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Those pilots and crew of VT-6 that were killed in action on 04 June 1942 included:
1) Lt Arthur Vincent Ely (VT-6 XO) and his gunner, RM3Arthur Richard Lindgren
2) Lt Paul James Riley and his gunner, ARM2 Edwin John Mushinski
3) Ltjg John Thomas Eversole and his gunner, RM2 John Udell Lane
4) Ltjg Randolph Mitchell Holder and his gunner, ARM3 Gregory Joseph Durawa
5) Ltjg Severin Louis Rombach and his gunner, ARM2 Wilburn Forrest Glenn
6) Ltjg Lloyd Thomas and his gunner, ARM2 Harold Francis Littlefield
7) Ensign John Wiley Brock and his gunner, ARM3 John Melville Blundell
8) Ensign Flourenoy Glenn Hodges and his gunner, RM2 John Hail Bates
9) Lcdr Eugene Elbert Lindsey (CO VT-6) and his gunner, ARMC Charles Tilden Grenat
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Contrary to what some researchers have stated, neither Ltjg Holder nor any of the Navy/Marine Corps aviators who engaged in aerial combat during the Air Battle of Midway were/are eligible for the Combat Action Ribbon (CAR). See SecNavInst 1650.1H (Navy/Marine Corps Awards Manual dated 22 Aug 2006) for award criteria details.
contrib#47281148
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