Wilburn was the son of Wilburn Readie and Molly Ruth (Johnson) Glenn who were married on 15 Oct 1919 in Travis County, TX. His only sibling was Peggy Ruth Glenn Miller.
Wilburn graduated from Taylor (TX) High School on 26 May 1939. A year later with his father's consent he enlisted in the US Navy (NSN: 3601853) on 11 July 1940 in Houston, TX as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.). He completed his recruit training at the Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego and reported to the Naval Air Station (NAS), San Diego on 30 Sept 1940. He was promoted to Seaman 2/c on 11 Nov 1940 while assigned to the NAS, San Diego. Seaman 2c Glenn detached from NAS San Diego on 04 Feb 1941 and was received onboard the USS Kaskaskia (AO-27) on 07 Feb 1941 in San Pedro, CA for transportation to the USS Enterprise (CV-6). He arrived in Pearl Harbor on 22 Feb 1941 and reported to the USS Enterprise (CV-6) later that day. He was further transferred to Torpedo Squadron Six (VT-6) on 14 April 1941. He was advanced in rate by June of that year to Seaman 1/c (S1c).
On 14 Jun 1941, S1c Glenn was one of five men who parachuted to safety after two torpedo planes collided in mid-air near Barbers Point Naval Air Station, Hawaii. One plane was piloted by Ensign W.W. Creamer who had as his passengers, Aviation Machinist's Mates Third Class (AMM3) J.G. Farnham and E.H. Clark. The second plane was piloted by Aviation Chief Machinists Mate H. A. Bueller and his passengers AMM3 John D. Leroy and W.F. Glenn, a Seaman First Class. After the crash, Ensign Creamer landed his plane safely. No one was injured.
Glenn was advanced in rate to Aviation Radioman 3/c (ARM3) later that year. He was promoted to ARM2 in 1942.
The Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938. 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. In Sep 1939, Enterprise became part of the Hawaiian Detachment of the U.S. Fleet whose homeport was Pearl Harbor. In Jan 1940 Enterprise was engaged in exercises in Hawaiian waters. In early Feb she steamed for Puget Sound Navy Shipyard for an overhaul after making a brief port call in San Diego. In late May, Enterprise, her overhaul completed, returned to San Diego for about a month. She returned to Pearl Harbor on 2 July 1940. Enterprise conducted exercises from August to early Nov in the Hawaiian area. Then on 09 Nov she steamed to San Diego until 2 Dec when she got underway for the Puget Sound Navy Shipyard in Bremerton, WA.
She returned to Pearl Harbor on 21 Jan 1941. During 1941 Enterprise made 13 round trips between Hawaii and San Diego from April - Nov conducting exercise cycles and squadron work-ups. During those months she also 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, now operating in a war-time steaming condition, 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.
In the first five months of 1942, Enterprise and her Air Group participated in the attack on Gilbert and Marshall Islands on 01 Feb 1942. During this action VT-6 attacked Japanese forces on Kwajalein; Wake Island raid 24 Feb 1942; On 4 March, Enterprise’s Air Group attacked enemy installations on the Marcus Islands; and on 18 April, she supported the Doolittle raid. In early May, Enterprise and the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-8) were dispatched 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. Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor on 28 May 1942, and with USS Hornet (CV-8), steamed toward a point Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed a short time later.
Early on the morning of June 4, 1942, pilot, Ltjg Severin L. Rombach and his radioman-gunner, ARM2 Glenn, launched their torpedo plane from Enterprise along with other aircraft of VT-6 and Air Group Six to attack the Japanese striking force that was near 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. One by one the planes of VT-6 were shot down. Of the 14 planes only 4 returned to Enterprise. Ltjg Rombach and Petty Officer Glenn did not return. . They were recorded as missing in action on 04 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 05 Jun 1943. A telegram was sent to the family by the Navy Department about 19 Jun 1942 informing them that ARM2 Glenn was missing in action. Glenn was listed as missing in action on 04 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 05 Jun 1943. Their remains were unrecoverable.
ARM2 Glenn was awarded (posthumously) the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation, American Defense Service Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with a bronze star and the World War II Victory Medal.
------------------------------------------------
The Taylor Daily Press (Taylor, TX) - 1 Mar 1943, Mon. - p. 1
"Wilburn Glenn Awarded DFC For Heroic Action"
Wilburn Forrest Glenn, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.R. Glenn of Austin, and formerly of Taylor, was among those listed by the navy to receive distinguished flying crosses for heroic action. Wilburn entered the naval service in July, 1940 and was in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He was reported missing in action during the battle of Midway and is still listed as such. With the DFC Mrs. Glenn received a request to send a picture of her son to the State Hall in Dallas to be hung with other Texas heroes.
--------------------------------------------
Distinguished Flying Cross Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Wilburn Forrest Glenn, Aviation Radioman Second Class, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. A free gunner and radio operator of a Torpedo Squadron SIX 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. His marked integrity in maintaining continuous fire in the face of 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)
----------------------------------------
**Of the 14 Torpedo Bombers from VT-6 that attacked the Japanese Striking Force on 4 Jan 1942 only four returned to Enterprise. Machinist 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 pilots and crew of VT-6 that were killed in action on 04 June 1942 were:
1) Lt Arthur Vincent Ely (VT-6 XO) and his gunner, RM3 Arthur 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
----------------------------------
The Presidential Unit Citation reads:
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.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls of 01 Feb 1942; Wake Island raid, 24 Feb 1942; Marcus Island raid, 04 Mar 1942; Battle of Midway, 4-6 Jun 1942; Occupation of Guadalcanal, 7-8 Aug 1942; Battle of Stewart Islands, 24 Aug 1942; Battle of Santa Cruz Islands, 26 Oct 1942; and Battle of Solomon Islands, 14-15 Nov 1942.
--------------------------------
The Honor Scroll commemoration sent to his family reads:
In grateful memory of Wilburn F. Glenn, 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
-----------------------------------------
Task Force 16 Citation Recognizing its contribution to the Doolittle Raid, 18 April 1942
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Second World War, it is appropriate that we take time to reflect on the unique and daring accomplishments achieved early in the war by Task Force 16. Sailing westward under sealed orders in April 1942, only four months after the devastating raid on Pearl Harbor, Task Force 16, carrying sixteen Army B-25 bombers, proceeded into history. Facing adverse weather and under constant threat of discovery before bombers could be launched to strike the Japanese homeland, the crews of the ships and LTC Doolittle's bombers persevered. On 18 April 1942 at 14:45, perseverance produced success as radio broadcasts from Japan confirmed the success of the raids. These raids were an enormous boost to the morale of the American people in those early and dark days of the war and a harbinger of the future for the Japanese High Command that had so foolishly awakened "The Sleeping Giant." These exploits, which so inspired the service men and women and the nation live on today and are remembered when the necessity of success against all odds is required.
(Signed) John H.Dalton
Secretary of the Navy
15 May 1995
-------------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST 1650.1H of Aug 22, 2006, Chapter 2, Section 3, p2-34). It reads in part, “The CR will not be awarded to personnel for Aerial Combat, . . . “ The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941.
-------------------------------------------
[Bio #132 composed by Gerry Lawton (G47)]
Military Hall of Honor [MHOH] Honoree ID: 92869
Wilburn graduated from Taylor (TX) High School on 26 May 1939. A year later with his father's consent he enlisted in the US Navy (NSN: 3601853) on 11 July 1940 in Houston, TX as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.). He completed his recruit training at the Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego and reported to the Naval Air Station (NAS), San Diego on 30 Sept 1940. He was promoted to Seaman 2/c on 11 Nov 1940 while assigned to the NAS, San Diego. Seaman 2c Glenn detached from NAS San Diego on 04 Feb 1941 and was received onboard the USS Kaskaskia (AO-27) on 07 Feb 1941 in San Pedro, CA for transportation to the USS Enterprise (CV-6). He arrived in Pearl Harbor on 22 Feb 1941 and reported to the USS Enterprise (CV-6) later that day. He was further transferred to Torpedo Squadron Six (VT-6) on 14 April 1941. He was advanced in rate by June of that year to Seaman 1/c (S1c).
On 14 Jun 1941, S1c Glenn was one of five men who parachuted to safety after two torpedo planes collided in mid-air near Barbers Point Naval Air Station, Hawaii. One plane was piloted by Ensign W.W. Creamer who had as his passengers, Aviation Machinist's Mates Third Class (AMM3) J.G. Farnham and E.H. Clark. The second plane was piloted by Aviation Chief Machinists Mate H. A. Bueller and his passengers AMM3 John D. Leroy and W.F. Glenn, a Seaman First Class. After the crash, Ensign Creamer landed his plane safely. No one was injured.
Glenn was advanced in rate to Aviation Radioman 3/c (ARM3) later that year. He was promoted to ARM2 in 1942.
The Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938. 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. In Sep 1939, Enterprise became part of the Hawaiian Detachment of the U.S. Fleet whose homeport was Pearl Harbor. In Jan 1940 Enterprise was engaged in exercises in Hawaiian waters. In early Feb she steamed for Puget Sound Navy Shipyard for an overhaul after making a brief port call in San Diego. In late May, Enterprise, her overhaul completed, returned to San Diego for about a month. She returned to Pearl Harbor on 2 July 1940. Enterprise conducted exercises from August to early Nov in the Hawaiian area. Then on 09 Nov she steamed to San Diego until 2 Dec when she got underway for the Puget Sound Navy Shipyard in Bremerton, WA.
She returned to Pearl Harbor on 21 Jan 1941. During 1941 Enterprise made 13 round trips between Hawaii and San Diego from April - Nov conducting exercise cycles and squadron work-ups. During those months she also 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, now operating in a war-time steaming condition, 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.
In the first five months of 1942, Enterprise and her Air Group participated in the attack on Gilbert and Marshall Islands on 01 Feb 1942. During this action VT-6 attacked Japanese forces on Kwajalein; Wake Island raid 24 Feb 1942; On 4 March, Enterprise’s Air Group attacked enemy installations on the Marcus Islands; and on 18 April, she supported the Doolittle raid. In early May, Enterprise and the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-8) were dispatched 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. Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor on 28 May 1942, and with USS Hornet (CV-8), steamed toward a point Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed a short time later.
Early on the morning of June 4, 1942, pilot, Ltjg Severin L. Rombach and his radioman-gunner, ARM2 Glenn, launched their torpedo plane from Enterprise along with other aircraft of VT-6 and Air Group Six to attack the Japanese striking force that was near 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. One by one the planes of VT-6 were shot down. Of the 14 planes only 4 returned to Enterprise. Ltjg Rombach and Petty Officer Glenn did not return. . They were recorded as missing in action on 04 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 05 Jun 1943. A telegram was sent to the family by the Navy Department about 19 Jun 1942 informing them that ARM2 Glenn was missing in action. Glenn was listed as missing in action on 04 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 05 Jun 1943. Their remains were unrecoverable.
ARM2 Glenn was awarded (posthumously) the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation, American Defense Service Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with a bronze star and the World War II Victory Medal.
------------------------------------------------
The Taylor Daily Press (Taylor, TX) - 1 Mar 1943, Mon. - p. 1
"Wilburn Glenn Awarded DFC For Heroic Action"
Wilburn Forrest Glenn, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.R. Glenn of Austin, and formerly of Taylor, was among those listed by the navy to receive distinguished flying crosses for heroic action. Wilburn entered the naval service in July, 1940 and was in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He was reported missing in action during the battle of Midway and is still listed as such. With the DFC Mrs. Glenn received a request to send a picture of her son to the State Hall in Dallas to be hung with other Texas heroes.
--------------------------------------------
Distinguished Flying Cross Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Wilburn Forrest Glenn, Aviation Radioman Second Class, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. A free gunner and radio operator of a Torpedo Squadron SIX 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. His marked integrity in maintaining continuous fire in the face of 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)
----------------------------------------
**Of the 14 Torpedo Bombers from VT-6 that attacked the Japanese Striking Force on 4 Jan 1942 only four returned to Enterprise. Machinist 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 pilots and crew of VT-6 that were killed in action on 04 June 1942 were:
1) Lt Arthur Vincent Ely (VT-6 XO) and his gunner, RM3 Arthur 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
----------------------------------
The Presidential Unit Citation reads:
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.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls of 01 Feb 1942; Wake Island raid, 24 Feb 1942; Marcus Island raid, 04 Mar 1942; Battle of Midway, 4-6 Jun 1942; Occupation of Guadalcanal, 7-8 Aug 1942; Battle of Stewart Islands, 24 Aug 1942; Battle of Santa Cruz Islands, 26 Oct 1942; and Battle of Solomon Islands, 14-15 Nov 1942.
--------------------------------
The Honor Scroll commemoration sent to his family reads:
In grateful memory of Wilburn F. Glenn, 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
-----------------------------------------
Task Force 16 Citation Recognizing its contribution to the Doolittle Raid, 18 April 1942
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Second World War, it is appropriate that we take time to reflect on the unique and daring accomplishments achieved early in the war by Task Force 16. Sailing westward under sealed orders in April 1942, only four months after the devastating raid on Pearl Harbor, Task Force 16, carrying sixteen Army B-25 bombers, proceeded into history. Facing adverse weather and under constant threat of discovery before bombers could be launched to strike the Japanese homeland, the crews of the ships and LTC Doolittle's bombers persevered. On 18 April 1942 at 14:45, perseverance produced success as radio broadcasts from Japan confirmed the success of the raids. These raids were an enormous boost to the morale of the American people in those early and dark days of the war and a harbinger of the future for the Japanese High Command that had so foolishly awakened "The Sleeping Giant." These exploits, which so inspired the service men and women and the nation live on today and are remembered when the necessity of success against all odds is required.
(Signed) John H.Dalton
Secretary of the Navy
15 May 1995
-------------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST 1650.1H of Aug 22, 2006, Chapter 2, Section 3, p2-34). It reads in part, “The CR will not be awarded to personnel for Aerial Combat, . . . “ The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941.
-------------------------------------------
[Bio #132 composed by Gerry Lawton (G47)]
Military Hall of Honor [MHOH] Honoree ID: 92869
Wilburn was the son of Wilburn Readie and Molly Ruth (Johnson) Glenn who were married on 15 Oct 1919 in Travis County, TX. His only sibling was Peggy Ruth Glenn Miller.
Wilburn graduated from Taylor (TX) High School on 26 May 1939. A year later with his father's consent he enlisted in the US Navy (NSN: 3601853) on 11 July 1940 in Houston, TX as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.). He completed his recruit training at the Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego and reported to the Naval Air Station (NAS), San Diego on 30 Sept 1940. He was promoted to Seaman 2/c on 11 Nov 1940 while assigned to the NAS, San Diego. Seaman 2c Glenn detached from NAS San Diego on 04 Feb 1941 and was received onboard the USS Kaskaskia (AO-27) on 07 Feb 1941 in San Pedro, CA for transportation to the USS Enterprise (CV-6). He arrived in Pearl Harbor on 22 Feb 1941 and reported to the USS Enterprise (CV-6) later that day. He was further transferred to Torpedo Squadron Six (VT-6) on 14 April 1941. He was advanced in rate by June of that year to Seaman 1/c (S1c).
On 14 Jun 1941, S1c Glenn was one of five men who parachuted to safety after two torpedo planes collided in mid-air near Barbers Point Naval Air Station, Hawaii. One plane was piloted by Ensign W.W. Creamer who had as his passengers, Aviation Machinist's Mates Third Class (AMM3) J.G. Farnham and E.H. Clark. The second plane was piloted by Aviation Chief Machinists Mate H. A. Bueller and his passengers AMM3 John D. Leroy and W.F. Glenn, a Seaman First Class. After the crash, Ensign Creamer landed his plane safely. No one was injured.
Glenn was advanced in rate to Aviation Radioman 3/c (ARM3) later that year. He was promoted to ARM2 in 1942.
The Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938. 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. In Sep 1939, Enterprise became part of the Hawaiian Detachment of the U.S. Fleet whose homeport was Pearl Harbor. In Jan 1940 Enterprise was engaged in exercises in Hawaiian waters. In early Feb she steamed for Puget Sound Navy Shipyard for an overhaul after making a brief port call in San Diego. In late May, Enterprise, her overhaul completed, returned to San Diego for about a month. She returned to Pearl Harbor on 2 July 1940. Enterprise conducted exercises from August to early Nov in the Hawaiian area. Then on 09 Nov she steamed to San Diego until 2 Dec when she got underway for the Puget Sound Navy Shipyard in Bremerton, WA.
She returned to Pearl Harbor on 21 Jan 1941. During 1941 Enterprise made 13 round trips between Hawaii and San Diego from April - Nov conducting exercise cycles and squadron work-ups. During those months she also 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, now operating in a war-time steaming condition, 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.
In the first five months of 1942, Enterprise and her Air Group participated in the attack on Gilbert and Marshall Islands on 01 Feb 1942. During this action VT-6 attacked Japanese forces on Kwajalein; Wake Island raid 24 Feb 1942; On 4 March, Enterprise’s Air Group attacked enemy installations on the Marcus Islands; and on 18 April, she supported the Doolittle raid. In early May, Enterprise and the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-8) were dispatched 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. Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor on 28 May 1942, and with USS Hornet (CV-8), steamed toward a point Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed a short time later.
Early on the morning of June 4, 1942, pilot, Ltjg Severin L. Rombach and his radioman-gunner, ARM2 Glenn, launched their torpedo plane from Enterprise along with other aircraft of VT-6 and Air Group Six to attack the Japanese striking force that was near 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. One by one the planes of VT-6 were shot down. Of the 14 planes only 4 returned to Enterprise. Ltjg Rombach and Petty Officer Glenn did not return. . They were recorded as missing in action on 04 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 05 Jun 1943. A telegram was sent to the family by the Navy Department about 19 Jun 1942 informing them that ARM2 Glenn was missing in action. Glenn was listed as missing in action on 04 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 05 Jun 1943. Their remains were unrecoverable.
ARM2 Glenn was awarded (posthumously) the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation, American Defense Service Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with a bronze star and the World War II Victory Medal.
------------------------------------------------
The Taylor Daily Press (Taylor, TX) - 1 Mar 1943, Mon. - p. 1
"Wilburn Glenn Awarded DFC For Heroic Action"
Wilburn Forrest Glenn, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.R. Glenn of Austin, and formerly of Taylor, was among those listed by the navy to receive distinguished flying crosses for heroic action. Wilburn entered the naval service in July, 1940 and was in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He was reported missing in action during the battle of Midway and is still listed as such. With the DFC Mrs. Glenn received a request to send a picture of her son to the State Hall in Dallas to be hung with other Texas heroes.
--------------------------------------------
Distinguished Flying Cross Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Wilburn Forrest Glenn, Aviation Radioman Second Class, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. A free gunner and radio operator of a Torpedo Squadron SIX 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. His marked integrity in maintaining continuous fire in the face of 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)
----------------------------------------
**Of the 14 Torpedo Bombers from VT-6 that attacked the Japanese Striking Force on 4 Jan 1942 only four returned to Enterprise. Machinist 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 pilots and crew of VT-6 that were killed in action on 04 June 1942 were:
1) Lt Arthur Vincent Ely (VT-6 XO) and his gunner, RM3 Arthur 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
----------------------------------
The Presidential Unit Citation reads:
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.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls of 01 Feb 1942; Wake Island raid, 24 Feb 1942; Marcus Island raid, 04 Mar 1942; Battle of Midway, 4-6 Jun 1942; Occupation of Guadalcanal, 7-8 Aug 1942; Battle of Stewart Islands, 24 Aug 1942; Battle of Santa Cruz Islands, 26 Oct 1942; and Battle of Solomon Islands, 14-15 Nov 1942.
--------------------------------
The Honor Scroll commemoration sent to his family reads:
In grateful memory of Wilburn F. Glenn, 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
-----------------------------------------
Task Force 16 Citation Recognizing its contribution to the Doolittle Raid, 18 April 1942
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Second World War, it is appropriate that we take time to reflect on the unique and daring accomplishments achieved early in the war by Task Force 16. Sailing westward under sealed orders in April 1942, only four months after the devastating raid on Pearl Harbor, Task Force 16, carrying sixteen Army B-25 bombers, proceeded into history. Facing adverse weather and under constant threat of discovery before bombers could be launched to strike the Japanese homeland, the crews of the ships and LTC Doolittle's bombers persevered. On 18 April 1942 at 14:45, perseverance produced success as radio broadcasts from Japan confirmed the success of the raids. These raids were an enormous boost to the morale of the American people in those early and dark days of the war and a harbinger of the future for the Japanese High Command that had so foolishly awakened "The Sleeping Giant." These exploits, which so inspired the service men and women and the nation live on today and are remembered when the necessity of success against all odds is required.
(Signed) John H.Dalton
Secretary of the Navy
15 May 1995
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Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST 1650.1H of Aug 22, 2006, Chapter 2, Section 3, p2-34). It reads in part, “The CR will not be awarded to personnel for Aerial Combat, . . . “ The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941.
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[Bio #132 composed by Gerry Lawton (G47)]
Military Hall of Honor [MHOH] Honoree ID: 92869
Wilburn graduated from Taylor (TX) High School on 26 May 1939. A year later with his father's consent he enlisted in the US Navy (NSN: 3601853) on 11 July 1940 in Houston, TX as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S.). He completed his recruit training at the Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego and reported to the Naval Air Station (NAS), San Diego on 30 Sept 1940. He was promoted to Seaman 2/c on 11 Nov 1940 while assigned to the NAS, San Diego. Seaman 2c Glenn detached from NAS San Diego on 04 Feb 1941 and was received onboard the USS Kaskaskia (AO-27) on 07 Feb 1941 in San Pedro, CA for transportation to the USS Enterprise (CV-6). He arrived in Pearl Harbor on 22 Feb 1941 and reported to the USS Enterprise (CV-6) later that day. He was further transferred to Torpedo Squadron Six (VT-6) on 14 April 1941. He was advanced in rate by June of that year to Seaman 1/c (S1c).
On 14 Jun 1941, S1c Glenn was one of five men who parachuted to safety after two torpedo planes collided in mid-air near Barbers Point Naval Air Station, Hawaii. One plane was piloted by Ensign W.W. Creamer who had as his passengers, Aviation Machinist's Mates Third Class (AMM3) J.G. Farnham and E.H. Clark. The second plane was piloted by Aviation Chief Machinists Mate H. A. Bueller and his passengers AMM3 John D. Leroy and W.F. Glenn, a Seaman First Class. After the crash, Ensign Creamer landed his plane safely. No one was injured.
Glenn was advanced in rate to Aviation Radioman 3/c (ARM3) later that year. He was promoted to ARM2 in 1942.
The Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938. 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. In Sep 1939, Enterprise became part of the Hawaiian Detachment of the U.S. Fleet whose homeport was Pearl Harbor. In Jan 1940 Enterprise was engaged in exercises in Hawaiian waters. In early Feb she steamed for Puget Sound Navy Shipyard for an overhaul after making a brief port call in San Diego. In late May, Enterprise, her overhaul completed, returned to San Diego for about a month. She returned to Pearl Harbor on 2 July 1940. Enterprise conducted exercises from August to early Nov in the Hawaiian area. Then on 09 Nov she steamed to San Diego until 2 Dec when she got underway for the Puget Sound Navy Shipyard in Bremerton, WA.
She returned to Pearl Harbor on 21 Jan 1941. During 1941 Enterprise made 13 round trips between Hawaii and San Diego from April - Nov conducting exercise cycles and squadron work-ups. During those months she also 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, now operating in a war-time steaming condition, 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.
In the first five months of 1942, Enterprise and her Air Group participated in the attack on Gilbert and Marshall Islands on 01 Feb 1942. During this action VT-6 attacked Japanese forces on Kwajalein; Wake Island raid 24 Feb 1942; On 4 March, Enterprise’s Air Group attacked enemy installations on the Marcus Islands; and on 18 April, she supported the Doolittle raid. In early May, Enterprise and the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-8) were dispatched 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. Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor on 28 May 1942, and with USS Hornet (CV-8), steamed toward a point Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed a short time later.
Early on the morning of June 4, 1942, pilot, Ltjg Severin L. Rombach and his radioman-gunner, ARM2 Glenn, launched their torpedo plane from Enterprise along with other aircraft of VT-6 and Air Group Six to attack the Japanese striking force that was near 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. One by one the planes of VT-6 were shot down. Of the 14 planes only 4 returned to Enterprise. Ltjg Rombach and Petty Officer Glenn did not return. . They were recorded as missing in action on 04 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 05 Jun 1943. A telegram was sent to the family by the Navy Department about 19 Jun 1942 informing them that ARM2 Glenn was missing in action. Glenn was listed as missing in action on 04 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 05 Jun 1943. Their remains were unrecoverable.
ARM2 Glenn was awarded (posthumously) the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation, American Defense Service Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with a bronze star and the World War II Victory Medal.
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The Taylor Daily Press (Taylor, TX) - 1 Mar 1943, Mon. - p. 1
"Wilburn Glenn Awarded DFC For Heroic Action"
Wilburn Forrest Glenn, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.R. Glenn of Austin, and formerly of Taylor, was among those listed by the navy to receive distinguished flying crosses for heroic action. Wilburn entered the naval service in July, 1940 and was in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He was reported missing in action during the battle of Midway and is still listed as such. With the DFC Mrs. Glenn received a request to send a picture of her son to the State Hall in Dallas to be hung with other Texas heroes.
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Distinguished Flying Cross Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Wilburn Forrest Glenn, Aviation Radioman Second Class, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. A free gunner and radio operator of a Torpedo Squadron SIX 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. His marked integrity in maintaining continuous fire in the face of 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)
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**Of the 14 Torpedo Bombers from VT-6 that attacked the Japanese Striking Force on 4 Jan 1942 only four returned to Enterprise. Machinist 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 pilots and crew of VT-6 that were killed in action on 04 June 1942 were:
1) Lt Arthur Vincent Ely (VT-6 XO) and his gunner, RM3 Arthur 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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The Presidential Unit Citation reads:
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.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls of 01 Feb 1942; Wake Island raid, 24 Feb 1942; Marcus Island raid, 04 Mar 1942; Battle of Midway, 4-6 Jun 1942; Occupation of Guadalcanal, 7-8 Aug 1942; Battle of Stewart Islands, 24 Aug 1942; Battle of Santa Cruz Islands, 26 Oct 1942; and Battle of Solomon Islands, 14-15 Nov 1942.
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The Honor Scroll commemoration sent to his family reads:
In grateful memory of Wilburn F. Glenn, 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
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Task Force 16 Citation Recognizing its contribution to the Doolittle Raid, 18 April 1942
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Second World War, it is appropriate that we take time to reflect on the unique and daring accomplishments achieved early in the war by Task Force 16. Sailing westward under sealed orders in April 1942, only four months after the devastating raid on Pearl Harbor, Task Force 16, carrying sixteen Army B-25 bombers, proceeded into history. Facing adverse weather and under constant threat of discovery before bombers could be launched to strike the Japanese homeland, the crews of the ships and LTC Doolittle's bombers persevered. On 18 April 1942 at 14:45, perseverance produced success as radio broadcasts from Japan confirmed the success of the raids. These raids were an enormous boost to the morale of the American people in those early and dark days of the war and a harbinger of the future for the Japanese High Command that had so foolishly awakened "The Sleeping Giant." These exploits, which so inspired the service men and women and the nation live on today and are remembered when the necessity of success against all odds is required.
(Signed) John H.Dalton
Secretary of the Navy
15 May 1995
-------------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST 1650.1H of Aug 22, 2006, Chapter 2, Section 3, p2-34). It reads in part, “The CR will not be awarded to personnel for Aerial Combat, . . . “ The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941.
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[Bio #132 composed by Gerry Lawton (G47)]
Military Hall of Honor [MHOH] Honoree ID: 92869
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Entered the service from Texas.
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