Cenotaph here
----
JOSEPH JOHN KARROL was the son of Polish immigrants to the United States, Ignace "Ignatius" M Karrol and Stephania "Stella" Stasskiewicz, who married about 1913. Ignace, as he was known, immigrated to the United States about 1906, and his wife, Sophia, immigrated about 1914. Egnis (sic) and his family were enumerated in the 1915 Moriah, Essex, NY state census. He was a miner. According to the census page, Egnis and family lived in Witherbee, Essex, NY. At the time, two children lived in the home; Helen and Joseph. Joseph's other sibling was Victor John Karrol. Ignace continued to work in the Iron mines of Essex County, NY until 1925 when the family moved to Schenectady, NY where he worked for General Electric as a foundryman until the 1940s. Joseph married Stella Mary Wojtyna on 18 Sep 1938 in Vallejo, Solano, CA. Their first child, Stella Elaine was born in San Diego on 30 Aug 1939 and their second child, a posthumous baby, was Joseph John Jr born in the Chelsea Naval hospital, Chelsea, Suffolk, MA on 01 Aug 1942. Stella died in Florida at the age of 98 on 14 Aug 2016. She was buried in the South Florida National Cemetery, Lake Worth, Palm Beach, FL. The inscription of her grave marker reads: "With God and her sailor now." Stella remained a widow for 74 years.
Joseph completed high school about 1933 in Schenectady. To learn a trade and help his family meet expenses during the Great Depression, Joseph, enlisted in the US Army (according to the 1935 Schenectady, NY city directory). According to the 01 April 1940 US Census in San Diego, CA, Joseph lived in Hawaii in 1935. After his discharge from the Army, Karrol presumably enlisted in the US Navy (NSN:238-55-11) in 1936 in California as an Apprentice Seaman (AS). He probably attended recruit training at the Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego. There, he was administered an aptitude exam, the scores from which, indicated that he was qualified for the communications field. After he completed "boot camp," SA Karrol attended the 17-Week Communications Service "Class A" school. He graduated with the designation as a radioman striker. It isn't known when Karrol was transferred to the USS Yorktown, but it was before 01 April 1940. On that date, RM3 Karrol, Stella and daughter Elaine lived San Diego, CA. The following year, Stella returned with her daughter to Boston, MA to be near her family. She also worked as a telephone operator in 1941. On 01 Aug 1942, she gave birth to a (posthumous) son, Joseph John Karrol, Jr., at the Chelsea Naval Hospital in Boston. Stella and Joseph were high school graduates.
From the time of her commissioning on 30 Sep 1937 at the Naval Station, Norfolk, VA, the Yorktown was assigned to the Atlantic Fleet. On 20 April 1939, Yorktown departed Hampton Roads and steamed to San Diego via the Panama Canal. In June 1940, Yorktown repositioned to Pearl Harbor where she conducted operations in the area between the US West Coast and Hawaii until the spring of 1941. On 31 Aug 1940, RM3 Joseph J. Karrol reported on board the USS Pennsylvania as a passenger from USS Yorktown. He was going to the West Coast on leave. He arrived in California on 7 Sept 1940 in a leave status. He returned from leave several weeks later. Yorktown got underway from Pearl Harbor on 20 April 1941 and transited the Panama Canal on the night of 6-7 May. She steamed to Bermuda arriving on 12 May 1941 as a member of the US Neutrality patrol.
Karrol was with the squadron through its transition at Norfolk from the Northrop BT-1 to the famous Douglas SBD "Dauntless," and flew patrols from Yorktown when that carrier covered convoys in the North Atlantic into the late fall of 1941. During her Neutrality patrol assignment, Yorktown conducted four patrols in the Atlantic ranging from Argentia, Newfoundland to Bermuda while enforcing American neutrality. Yorktown returned to Norfolk arriving on 2 Dec 1941. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Yorktown departed Norfolk on 16 Dec 1941 for the Pacific. She steamed into San Diego 30 Dec 1941.
Soon after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Yorktown participated in raids on Japanese forward bases in the Marshall and Gilbert Islands. Lt Samuel Adams (Karrol may have been his gunner) led a section of Dauntless dive bombers from VB-5 in raids against Japanese forces at Jaluit on 1 Feb 1942. He again led a section of SBDs in raids on Japanese shipping of Lae and Salamaua, New Guinea on 10 Mar 1942. Later he led sections on raids against Tulagi on 4 May 1942 and in the Battle of the Coral Sea (7-8 May 1942).
The Yorktown was damaged during the battle of the Coral Sea. She returned as quickly as possible to Pearl Harbor docking on 27 May 1942. She was hastily repaired in order that she might join the US forces preparing for the Battle of Midway. During the few days inport (27-29 May), the Yorktown Air Group was broken up much to the consternation of Admiral Fletcher and Captain Buckmaster. The stated reason for the break-up was to help fill-out other newly forming squadrons. Yorktown squadrons, Fighting Forty Two (VF-42), Torpedo Five (VT-5), and Scouting Five (VS-5), were ordered to remain ashore when Yorktown repairs were completed. Only Lt. Wally Short's Bombing Five (VB-5) would be retained on board.
After transfers of many veteran pilots to other assignments, VB-5 was left with only ten seasoned pilots. The squadron received 10 new, untested pilots. Of these ten, only two had carrier experience. Three quarters of the Yorktown Air Group were replacements from the damaged Saratoga's displaced air group. These included Lcdr. Max Leslie's Bombing Three (VB-3), Lcdr. John "Jimmy" Thach's Fighting Three (VF-3), and Lcdr. Lem Massey's Torpedo Three (VT-3). Yorktown now had two bombing squadrons on board. This caused much confusion on the flight deck and the ship in general. In order to alleviate the situation, Bombing Five was temporarily renamed Scouting Five (VSB-5). The renaming of VB-5 did not sit well with the squadron's personnel, but it did relieve the confusion caused by having two different bombing squadrons on board. Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor on 28 May 1942, and with Hornet, steamed toward a point Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed on 30 May. The forces rendezvoused on 2 Jun 1942.
At 0700 on the morning of 4 Jun 1942, the first strike packages from Enterprise air group along with those from the USS Hornet (CV-8) began launching to intercept and attack the Japanese carrier fleet approaching the Midway Atoll.
At first light that same morning, Yorktown launched ten Dauntless scout-bombers (VSB-5) on a search mission toward the northern semi-circle at a distance of 100 miles as a precaution against surprise by enemy carriers. Lt. Adams and his gunner, Aviation Radioman First Class (ARM1) Joseph J. Karrol were originally scheduled to fly in the search group. However, Lt Adams "pulled rank" on the junior mission scheduling officer and switched assignments. Lt Adams would fly with the strike group. The scouts returned at about 0830 with negative search results. The deck was then spotted for take-off of the strike package. Between 1030 to 1050 Yorktown launched her strike group consisting of seventeen Dauntless Dive-Bombers (VB) from Bombing Three, twelve VT from Torpedo Three and six fighters from Fighting Three. This strike package was launched just over an hour after Enterprise and Hornet launched their strike groups. Yorktown's strike package found the Soryu and mortally wounded her. Missing, however, from the strike package were the dive-bombers of Scouting Five (VSB-5).
VSB-5 aircraft were spotted last on the deck as pilots manned their planes during the strike group launch. As the preceding planes of the strike package left Yorktown, VSB-5 moved up to their take-off spot only to be told to kill their engines and to return to their Ready Room. Their planes were then lowered down into the hanger bay. In the Ready Room, the pilots learned that only three of the four expected Japanese carriers had been found. As a precaution, Admiral Fletcher had VSB-5 split; ten planes would search for the fourth enemy carrier while seven were withheld as a back-up strike against the fourth enemy carrier if found. Lt Adams was one of the pilots of the ten SBDs on the search mission. At 1115, six fighters were launched for a Combat Air Patrol (CAP) followed immediately by the recovery of the six CAP already airborne. Then the flight deck was respotted with thirteen fighters and seventeen VSB-5 dive-bombers for immediate take-off.
At 1300, 10 SBDs of VSB-5, each armed with 1-1000 pound bomb, were launched to search in pairs assigned sectors out to 250 miles in an arc bearing 280 degrees (T) to 020 degrees (T) (from West Northwest to Northeast). They're mission was to locate and attack enemy carriers. The remaining seven VSB-5 planes on Yorktown were struck below. At about 1630, while on his return leg to Yorktown, Lt Adams and his wingman Ltjg Harlan Rockey Dickson made contact with an enemy force consisting of 1 carrier and escorting ships. Lt Adams made a radio report of the sighting to Yorktown. That report was followed up with a second sighting report sent by Morse Code by ARM1 Karrol. Their accurate and precise positional information was used to guide strike packages launched from Enterprise and Hornet against the Hiryu; the last untouched Japanese carrier. Adams' plane was also attacked by a Zero fighter, but his gunner, ARM1 Karrol, drove it off. Prior to the return of VSB-5, Yorktown was attacked at 1400 by Japanese aircraft and disabled. Her flight deck closed, Yorktown's returning aircraft were vectored to other carriers. One section of returning VSB-5 (2 planes) was forced to land on Hornet and four sections (8 planes) of VSB-5, including Lt Adams and Ltjg Dickson, landed on Enterprise.
The following day, June 5, 1942, a combined air strike comprised of 65 planes from Enterprise and Hornet were sent to find and sink the Hiryu. The strike package was unable to locate the Hiryu (it had already sunk) so they began looking for any other Japanese shipping targets. Without luck plus running low on fuel, the strike group was preparing to return to base when a single ship was sighted. All 65 aircraft would eventually attack the destroyer, Tanikaze, without scoring a single bomb hit. During the melee, one American plane was shot down; Lt Adams and his radioman-gunner, ARM1 Joseph John Karrol, were seen entering a cloud formation, but were never seen again.
The remaining aircraft returned to the two remaining carriers in the dark. Hornet's CO made a risky decision to turn on several search lights to help guide Hornet's planes home. That decision saved many lives and aircraft. Admiral Spruance issued similar orders to illuminate both Hornet's and Enterprise's landing lights at 1933. Several minutes later Enterprise turned on her thirty-six inch searchlights. The Hornet and Enterprise Landing Signal Officers (LSO) performed admirably, bringing sixty-three of the returning planes down safely in the dark. One plane of the returning group was lost when it ran out of fuel while attempting to land. The pilot and gunner were quickly retrieved by the ever-present rescue destroyer.
The Tanikaze was dispatched alone to find the Hiryu and sink it if she was still afloat. Her CO had commented later that he believed this would be a suicide mission for his ship because the Japanese no longer had any air cover to protect them. Other Japanese officers believed that because the Tanikaze distracted the American air group who had expended all their bombs on this ship, prevented further damage to the Japanese Striking and Occupation Force as it withdrew from the battle area. The Tanikaze was sunk by an American submarine near the Philippines in 1944.
ARM1 Karrol was reported missing in action on 5 June 1942. His remains were unrecoverable. His wife and family received telegrams about 18 June 1942 from the Navy Department informing them that Petty Officer Karrol was missing following action in the performance of his duty and in the service to his country. They received a letter from the Navy Department about July 1943 to advise them that after a full review of all available information the Secretary of the Navy was reluctantly forced to the conclusion that Aviation Radioman First Class, Joseph J. Karrol, United States Navy, was deceased. He was reported "missing in action" while a member of Squadron VSB-5, based on the USS Yorktown, when the plane of which he was pilot was shot down by the enemy in the Battle of Midway. His death was presumed to have occurred on the 6th day of June 1943, the day following an absence of twelve months
---------------------------------
ARM1 Karrol was awarded the Navy Cross, Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon, Navy Good Conduct Medal (1940), American Campaign medal, American Defense Medal with bronze "A,* " Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with 3 bronze stars, and the World War II Victory medal. * The bronze "A" was for contact with Axis forces in the Atlantic Ocean between 21 September and 11 October 1941.
------------------------------
Navy Cross Citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Joseph John Karrol, Aviation Radioman First Class, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as free machine gunner and Radioman of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron FIVE, attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN, during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. When his pilot established contact with major enemy units, and in the face of determined opposition, he bravely drove off attacking fighters and sent complete contact and amplifying reports which later enabled our own forces to attack the last remaining enemy aircraft carrier. His brave and gallant action contributed in a large degree to the glorious and decisive victory of our forces and his valorous deeds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 3013 (July 18, 1942)
------------------------------
His family also received a scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of Joseph John Karrol. The citation reads:
In grateful memory of Joseph J. Karrol, who died in the service of his country at SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. Yorktown, 6 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
-------------------------------
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.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls raid 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.
------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway or any aerial combat were NOT eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat was/is the Air Medal.
[Bio #258 composed 19 Aug 2016 by Gerry Lawton (G47/GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor ID#95408
----
JOSEPH JOHN KARROL was the son of Polish immigrants to the United States, Ignace "Ignatius" M Karrol and Stephania "Stella" Stasskiewicz, who married about 1913. Ignace, as he was known, immigrated to the United States about 1906, and his wife, Sophia, immigrated about 1914. Egnis (sic) and his family were enumerated in the 1915 Moriah, Essex, NY state census. He was a miner. According to the census page, Egnis and family lived in Witherbee, Essex, NY. At the time, two children lived in the home; Helen and Joseph. Joseph's other sibling was Victor John Karrol. Ignace continued to work in the Iron mines of Essex County, NY until 1925 when the family moved to Schenectady, NY where he worked for General Electric as a foundryman until the 1940s. Joseph married Stella Mary Wojtyna on 18 Sep 1938 in Vallejo, Solano, CA. Their first child, Stella Elaine was born in San Diego on 30 Aug 1939 and their second child, a posthumous baby, was Joseph John Jr born in the Chelsea Naval hospital, Chelsea, Suffolk, MA on 01 Aug 1942. Stella died in Florida at the age of 98 on 14 Aug 2016. She was buried in the South Florida National Cemetery, Lake Worth, Palm Beach, FL. The inscription of her grave marker reads: "With God and her sailor now." Stella remained a widow for 74 years.
Joseph completed high school about 1933 in Schenectady. To learn a trade and help his family meet expenses during the Great Depression, Joseph, enlisted in the US Army (according to the 1935 Schenectady, NY city directory). According to the 01 April 1940 US Census in San Diego, CA, Joseph lived in Hawaii in 1935. After his discharge from the Army, Karrol presumably enlisted in the US Navy (NSN:238-55-11) in 1936 in California as an Apprentice Seaman (AS). He probably attended recruit training at the Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego. There, he was administered an aptitude exam, the scores from which, indicated that he was qualified for the communications field. After he completed "boot camp," SA Karrol attended the 17-Week Communications Service "Class A" school. He graduated with the designation as a radioman striker. It isn't known when Karrol was transferred to the USS Yorktown, but it was before 01 April 1940. On that date, RM3 Karrol, Stella and daughter Elaine lived San Diego, CA. The following year, Stella returned with her daughter to Boston, MA to be near her family. She also worked as a telephone operator in 1941. On 01 Aug 1942, she gave birth to a (posthumous) son, Joseph John Karrol, Jr., at the Chelsea Naval Hospital in Boston. Stella and Joseph were high school graduates.
From the time of her commissioning on 30 Sep 1937 at the Naval Station, Norfolk, VA, the Yorktown was assigned to the Atlantic Fleet. On 20 April 1939, Yorktown departed Hampton Roads and steamed to San Diego via the Panama Canal. In June 1940, Yorktown repositioned to Pearl Harbor where she conducted operations in the area between the US West Coast and Hawaii until the spring of 1941. On 31 Aug 1940, RM3 Joseph J. Karrol reported on board the USS Pennsylvania as a passenger from USS Yorktown. He was going to the West Coast on leave. He arrived in California on 7 Sept 1940 in a leave status. He returned from leave several weeks later. Yorktown got underway from Pearl Harbor on 20 April 1941 and transited the Panama Canal on the night of 6-7 May. She steamed to Bermuda arriving on 12 May 1941 as a member of the US Neutrality patrol.
Karrol was with the squadron through its transition at Norfolk from the Northrop BT-1 to the famous Douglas SBD "Dauntless," and flew patrols from Yorktown when that carrier covered convoys in the North Atlantic into the late fall of 1941. During her Neutrality patrol assignment, Yorktown conducted four patrols in the Atlantic ranging from Argentia, Newfoundland to Bermuda while enforcing American neutrality. Yorktown returned to Norfolk arriving on 2 Dec 1941. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Yorktown departed Norfolk on 16 Dec 1941 for the Pacific. She steamed into San Diego 30 Dec 1941.
Soon after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Yorktown participated in raids on Japanese forward bases in the Marshall and Gilbert Islands. Lt Samuel Adams (Karrol may have been his gunner) led a section of Dauntless dive bombers from VB-5 in raids against Japanese forces at Jaluit on 1 Feb 1942. He again led a section of SBDs in raids on Japanese shipping of Lae and Salamaua, New Guinea on 10 Mar 1942. Later he led sections on raids against Tulagi on 4 May 1942 and in the Battle of the Coral Sea (7-8 May 1942).
The Yorktown was damaged during the battle of the Coral Sea. She returned as quickly as possible to Pearl Harbor docking on 27 May 1942. She was hastily repaired in order that she might join the US forces preparing for the Battle of Midway. During the few days inport (27-29 May), the Yorktown Air Group was broken up much to the consternation of Admiral Fletcher and Captain Buckmaster. The stated reason for the break-up was to help fill-out other newly forming squadrons. Yorktown squadrons, Fighting Forty Two (VF-42), Torpedo Five (VT-5), and Scouting Five (VS-5), were ordered to remain ashore when Yorktown repairs were completed. Only Lt. Wally Short's Bombing Five (VB-5) would be retained on board.
After transfers of many veteran pilots to other assignments, VB-5 was left with only ten seasoned pilots. The squadron received 10 new, untested pilots. Of these ten, only two had carrier experience. Three quarters of the Yorktown Air Group were replacements from the damaged Saratoga's displaced air group. These included Lcdr. Max Leslie's Bombing Three (VB-3), Lcdr. John "Jimmy" Thach's Fighting Three (VF-3), and Lcdr. Lem Massey's Torpedo Three (VT-3). Yorktown now had two bombing squadrons on board. This caused much confusion on the flight deck and the ship in general. In order to alleviate the situation, Bombing Five was temporarily renamed Scouting Five (VSB-5). The renaming of VB-5 did not sit well with the squadron's personnel, but it did relieve the confusion caused by having two different bombing squadrons on board. Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor on 28 May 1942, and with Hornet, steamed toward a point Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed on 30 May. The forces rendezvoused on 2 Jun 1942.
At 0700 on the morning of 4 Jun 1942, the first strike packages from Enterprise air group along with those from the USS Hornet (CV-8) began launching to intercept and attack the Japanese carrier fleet approaching the Midway Atoll.
At first light that same morning, Yorktown launched ten Dauntless scout-bombers (VSB-5) on a search mission toward the northern semi-circle at a distance of 100 miles as a precaution against surprise by enemy carriers. Lt. Adams and his gunner, Aviation Radioman First Class (ARM1) Joseph J. Karrol were originally scheduled to fly in the search group. However, Lt Adams "pulled rank" on the junior mission scheduling officer and switched assignments. Lt Adams would fly with the strike group. The scouts returned at about 0830 with negative search results. The deck was then spotted for take-off of the strike package. Between 1030 to 1050 Yorktown launched her strike group consisting of seventeen Dauntless Dive-Bombers (VB) from Bombing Three, twelve VT from Torpedo Three and six fighters from Fighting Three. This strike package was launched just over an hour after Enterprise and Hornet launched their strike groups. Yorktown's strike package found the Soryu and mortally wounded her. Missing, however, from the strike package were the dive-bombers of Scouting Five (VSB-5).
VSB-5 aircraft were spotted last on the deck as pilots manned their planes during the strike group launch. As the preceding planes of the strike package left Yorktown, VSB-5 moved up to their take-off spot only to be told to kill their engines and to return to their Ready Room. Their planes were then lowered down into the hanger bay. In the Ready Room, the pilots learned that only three of the four expected Japanese carriers had been found. As a precaution, Admiral Fletcher had VSB-5 split; ten planes would search for the fourth enemy carrier while seven were withheld as a back-up strike against the fourth enemy carrier if found. Lt Adams was one of the pilots of the ten SBDs on the search mission. At 1115, six fighters were launched for a Combat Air Patrol (CAP) followed immediately by the recovery of the six CAP already airborne. Then the flight deck was respotted with thirteen fighters and seventeen VSB-5 dive-bombers for immediate take-off.
At 1300, 10 SBDs of VSB-5, each armed with 1-1000 pound bomb, were launched to search in pairs assigned sectors out to 250 miles in an arc bearing 280 degrees (T) to 020 degrees (T) (from West Northwest to Northeast). They're mission was to locate and attack enemy carriers. The remaining seven VSB-5 planes on Yorktown were struck below. At about 1630, while on his return leg to Yorktown, Lt Adams and his wingman Ltjg Harlan Rockey Dickson made contact with an enemy force consisting of 1 carrier and escorting ships. Lt Adams made a radio report of the sighting to Yorktown. That report was followed up with a second sighting report sent by Morse Code by ARM1 Karrol. Their accurate and precise positional information was used to guide strike packages launched from Enterprise and Hornet against the Hiryu; the last untouched Japanese carrier. Adams' plane was also attacked by a Zero fighter, but his gunner, ARM1 Karrol, drove it off. Prior to the return of VSB-5, Yorktown was attacked at 1400 by Japanese aircraft and disabled. Her flight deck closed, Yorktown's returning aircraft were vectored to other carriers. One section of returning VSB-5 (2 planes) was forced to land on Hornet and four sections (8 planes) of VSB-5, including Lt Adams and Ltjg Dickson, landed on Enterprise.
The following day, June 5, 1942, a combined air strike comprised of 65 planes from Enterprise and Hornet were sent to find and sink the Hiryu. The strike package was unable to locate the Hiryu (it had already sunk) so they began looking for any other Japanese shipping targets. Without luck plus running low on fuel, the strike group was preparing to return to base when a single ship was sighted. All 65 aircraft would eventually attack the destroyer, Tanikaze, without scoring a single bomb hit. During the melee, one American plane was shot down; Lt Adams and his radioman-gunner, ARM1 Joseph John Karrol, were seen entering a cloud formation, but were never seen again.
The remaining aircraft returned to the two remaining carriers in the dark. Hornet's CO made a risky decision to turn on several search lights to help guide Hornet's planes home. That decision saved many lives and aircraft. Admiral Spruance issued similar orders to illuminate both Hornet's and Enterprise's landing lights at 1933. Several minutes later Enterprise turned on her thirty-six inch searchlights. The Hornet and Enterprise Landing Signal Officers (LSO) performed admirably, bringing sixty-three of the returning planes down safely in the dark. One plane of the returning group was lost when it ran out of fuel while attempting to land. The pilot and gunner were quickly retrieved by the ever-present rescue destroyer.
The Tanikaze was dispatched alone to find the Hiryu and sink it if she was still afloat. Her CO had commented later that he believed this would be a suicide mission for his ship because the Japanese no longer had any air cover to protect them. Other Japanese officers believed that because the Tanikaze distracted the American air group who had expended all their bombs on this ship, prevented further damage to the Japanese Striking and Occupation Force as it withdrew from the battle area. The Tanikaze was sunk by an American submarine near the Philippines in 1944.
ARM1 Karrol was reported missing in action on 5 June 1942. His remains were unrecoverable. His wife and family received telegrams about 18 June 1942 from the Navy Department informing them that Petty Officer Karrol was missing following action in the performance of his duty and in the service to his country. They received a letter from the Navy Department about July 1943 to advise them that after a full review of all available information the Secretary of the Navy was reluctantly forced to the conclusion that Aviation Radioman First Class, Joseph J. Karrol, United States Navy, was deceased. He was reported "missing in action" while a member of Squadron VSB-5, based on the USS Yorktown, when the plane of which he was pilot was shot down by the enemy in the Battle of Midway. His death was presumed to have occurred on the 6th day of June 1943, the day following an absence of twelve months
---------------------------------
ARM1 Karrol was awarded the Navy Cross, Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon, Navy Good Conduct Medal (1940), American Campaign medal, American Defense Medal with bronze "A,* " Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with 3 bronze stars, and the World War II Victory medal. * The bronze "A" was for contact with Axis forces in the Atlantic Ocean between 21 September and 11 October 1941.
------------------------------
Navy Cross Citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Joseph John Karrol, Aviation Radioman First Class, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as free machine gunner and Radioman of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron FIVE, attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN, during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. When his pilot established contact with major enemy units, and in the face of determined opposition, he bravely drove off attacking fighters and sent complete contact and amplifying reports which later enabled our own forces to attack the last remaining enemy aircraft carrier. His brave and gallant action contributed in a large degree to the glorious and decisive victory of our forces and his valorous deeds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 3013 (July 18, 1942)
------------------------------
His family also received a scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of Joseph John Karrol. The citation reads:
In grateful memory of Joseph J. Karrol, who died in the service of his country at SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. Yorktown, 6 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
-------------------------------
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.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls raid 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.
------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway or any aerial combat were NOT eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat was/is the Air Medal.
[Bio #258 composed 19 Aug 2016 by Gerry Lawton (G47/GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor ID#95408
Cenotaph here
----
JOSEPH JOHN KARROL was the son of Polish immigrants to the United States, Ignace "Ignatius" M Karrol and Stephania "Stella" Stasskiewicz, who married about 1913. Ignace, as he was known, immigrated to the United States about 1906, and his wife, Sophia, immigrated about 1914. Egnis (sic) and his family were enumerated in the 1915 Moriah, Essex, NY state census. He was a miner. According to the census page, Egnis and family lived in Witherbee, Essex, NY. At the time, two children lived in the home; Helen and Joseph. Joseph's other sibling was Victor John Karrol. Ignace continued to work in the Iron mines of Essex County, NY until 1925 when the family moved to Schenectady, NY where he worked for General Electric as a foundryman until the 1940s. Joseph married Stella Mary Wojtyna on 18 Sep 1938 in Vallejo, Solano, CA. Their first child, Stella Elaine was born in San Diego on 30 Aug 1939 and their second child, a posthumous baby, was Joseph John Jr born in the Chelsea Naval hospital, Chelsea, Suffolk, MA on 01 Aug 1942. Stella died in Florida at the age of 98 on 14 Aug 2016. She was buried in the South Florida National Cemetery, Lake Worth, Palm Beach, FL. The inscription of her grave marker reads: "With God and her sailor now." Stella remained a widow for 74 years.
Joseph completed high school about 1933 in Schenectady. To learn a trade and help his family meet expenses during the Great Depression, Joseph, enlisted in the US Army (according to the 1935 Schenectady, NY city directory). According to the 01 April 1940 US Census in San Diego, CA, Joseph lived in Hawaii in 1935. After his discharge from the Army, Karrol presumably enlisted in the US Navy (NSN:238-55-11) in 1936 in California as an Apprentice Seaman (AS). He probably attended recruit training at the Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego. There, he was administered an aptitude exam, the scores from which, indicated that he was qualified for the communications field. After he completed "boot camp," SA Karrol attended the 17-Week Communications Service "Class A" school. He graduated with the designation as a radioman striker. It isn't known when Karrol was transferred to the USS Yorktown, but it was before 01 April 1940. On that date, RM3 Karrol, Stella and daughter Elaine lived San Diego, CA. The following year, Stella returned with her daughter to Boston, MA to be near her family. She also worked as a telephone operator in 1941. On 01 Aug 1942, she gave birth to a (posthumous) son, Joseph John Karrol, Jr., at the Chelsea Naval Hospital in Boston. Stella and Joseph were high school graduates.
From the time of her commissioning on 30 Sep 1937 at the Naval Station, Norfolk, VA, the Yorktown was assigned to the Atlantic Fleet. On 20 April 1939, Yorktown departed Hampton Roads and steamed to San Diego via the Panama Canal. In June 1940, Yorktown repositioned to Pearl Harbor where she conducted operations in the area between the US West Coast and Hawaii until the spring of 1941. On 31 Aug 1940, RM3 Joseph J. Karrol reported on board the USS Pennsylvania as a passenger from USS Yorktown. He was going to the West Coast on leave. He arrived in California on 7 Sept 1940 in a leave status. He returned from leave several weeks later. Yorktown got underway from Pearl Harbor on 20 April 1941 and transited the Panama Canal on the night of 6-7 May. She steamed to Bermuda arriving on 12 May 1941 as a member of the US Neutrality patrol.
Karrol was with the squadron through its transition at Norfolk from the Northrop BT-1 to the famous Douglas SBD "Dauntless," and flew patrols from Yorktown when that carrier covered convoys in the North Atlantic into the late fall of 1941. During her Neutrality patrol assignment, Yorktown conducted four patrols in the Atlantic ranging from Argentia, Newfoundland to Bermuda while enforcing American neutrality. Yorktown returned to Norfolk arriving on 2 Dec 1941. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Yorktown departed Norfolk on 16 Dec 1941 for the Pacific. She steamed into San Diego 30 Dec 1941.
Soon after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Yorktown participated in raids on Japanese forward bases in the Marshall and Gilbert Islands. Lt Samuel Adams (Karrol may have been his gunner) led a section of Dauntless dive bombers from VB-5 in raids against Japanese forces at Jaluit on 1 Feb 1942. He again led a section of SBDs in raids on Japanese shipping of Lae and Salamaua, New Guinea on 10 Mar 1942. Later he led sections on raids against Tulagi on 4 May 1942 and in the Battle of the Coral Sea (7-8 May 1942).
The Yorktown was damaged during the battle of the Coral Sea. She returned as quickly as possible to Pearl Harbor docking on 27 May 1942. She was hastily repaired in order that she might join the US forces preparing for the Battle of Midway. During the few days inport (27-29 May), the Yorktown Air Group was broken up much to the consternation of Admiral Fletcher and Captain Buckmaster. The stated reason for the break-up was to help fill-out other newly forming squadrons. Yorktown squadrons, Fighting Forty Two (VF-42), Torpedo Five (VT-5), and Scouting Five (VS-5), were ordered to remain ashore when Yorktown repairs were completed. Only Lt. Wally Short's Bombing Five (VB-5) would be retained on board.
After transfers of many veteran pilots to other assignments, VB-5 was left with only ten seasoned pilots. The squadron received 10 new, untested pilots. Of these ten, only two had carrier experience. Three quarters of the Yorktown Air Group were replacements from the damaged Saratoga's displaced air group. These included Lcdr. Max Leslie's Bombing Three (VB-3), Lcdr. John "Jimmy" Thach's Fighting Three (VF-3), and Lcdr. Lem Massey's Torpedo Three (VT-3). Yorktown now had two bombing squadrons on board. This caused much confusion on the flight deck and the ship in general. In order to alleviate the situation, Bombing Five was temporarily renamed Scouting Five (VSB-5). The renaming of VB-5 did not sit well with the squadron's personnel, but it did relieve the confusion caused by having two different bombing squadrons on board. Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor on 28 May 1942, and with Hornet, steamed toward a point Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed on 30 May. The forces rendezvoused on 2 Jun 1942.
At 0700 on the morning of 4 Jun 1942, the first strike packages from Enterprise air group along with those from the USS Hornet (CV-8) began launching to intercept and attack the Japanese carrier fleet approaching the Midway Atoll.
At first light that same morning, Yorktown launched ten Dauntless scout-bombers (VSB-5) on a search mission toward the northern semi-circle at a distance of 100 miles as a precaution against surprise by enemy carriers. Lt. Adams and his gunner, Aviation Radioman First Class (ARM1) Joseph J. Karrol were originally scheduled to fly in the search group. However, Lt Adams "pulled rank" on the junior mission scheduling officer and switched assignments. Lt Adams would fly with the strike group. The scouts returned at about 0830 with negative search results. The deck was then spotted for take-off of the strike package. Between 1030 to 1050 Yorktown launched her strike group consisting of seventeen Dauntless Dive-Bombers (VB) from Bombing Three, twelve VT from Torpedo Three and six fighters from Fighting Three. This strike package was launched just over an hour after Enterprise and Hornet launched their strike groups. Yorktown's strike package found the Soryu and mortally wounded her. Missing, however, from the strike package were the dive-bombers of Scouting Five (VSB-5).
VSB-5 aircraft were spotted last on the deck as pilots manned their planes during the strike group launch. As the preceding planes of the strike package left Yorktown, VSB-5 moved up to their take-off spot only to be told to kill their engines and to return to their Ready Room. Their planes were then lowered down into the hanger bay. In the Ready Room, the pilots learned that only three of the four expected Japanese carriers had been found. As a precaution, Admiral Fletcher had VSB-5 split; ten planes would search for the fourth enemy carrier while seven were withheld as a back-up strike against the fourth enemy carrier if found. Lt Adams was one of the pilots of the ten SBDs on the search mission. At 1115, six fighters were launched for a Combat Air Patrol (CAP) followed immediately by the recovery of the six CAP already airborne. Then the flight deck was respotted with thirteen fighters and seventeen VSB-5 dive-bombers for immediate take-off.
At 1300, 10 SBDs of VSB-5, each armed with 1-1000 pound bomb, were launched to search in pairs assigned sectors out to 250 miles in an arc bearing 280 degrees (T) to 020 degrees (T) (from West Northwest to Northeast). They're mission was to locate and attack enemy carriers. The remaining seven VSB-5 planes on Yorktown were struck below. At about 1630, while on his return leg to Yorktown, Lt Adams and his wingman Ltjg Harlan Rockey Dickson made contact with an enemy force consisting of 1 carrier and escorting ships. Lt Adams made a radio report of the sighting to Yorktown. That report was followed up with a second sighting report sent by Morse Code by ARM1 Karrol. Their accurate and precise positional information was used to guide strike packages launched from Enterprise and Hornet against the Hiryu; the last untouched Japanese carrier. Adams' plane was also attacked by a Zero fighter, but his gunner, ARM1 Karrol, drove it off. Prior to the return of VSB-5, Yorktown was attacked at 1400 by Japanese aircraft and disabled. Her flight deck closed, Yorktown's returning aircraft were vectored to other carriers. One section of returning VSB-5 (2 planes) was forced to land on Hornet and four sections (8 planes) of VSB-5, including Lt Adams and Ltjg Dickson, landed on Enterprise.
The following day, June 5, 1942, a combined air strike comprised of 65 planes from Enterprise and Hornet were sent to find and sink the Hiryu. The strike package was unable to locate the Hiryu (it had already sunk) so they began looking for any other Japanese shipping targets. Without luck plus running low on fuel, the strike group was preparing to return to base when a single ship was sighted. All 65 aircraft would eventually attack the destroyer, Tanikaze, without scoring a single bomb hit. During the melee, one American plane was shot down; Lt Adams and his radioman-gunner, ARM1 Joseph John Karrol, were seen entering a cloud formation, but were never seen again.
The remaining aircraft returned to the two remaining carriers in the dark. Hornet's CO made a risky decision to turn on several search lights to help guide Hornet's planes home. That decision saved many lives and aircraft. Admiral Spruance issued similar orders to illuminate both Hornet's and Enterprise's landing lights at 1933. Several minutes later Enterprise turned on her thirty-six inch searchlights. The Hornet and Enterprise Landing Signal Officers (LSO) performed admirably, bringing sixty-three of the returning planes down safely in the dark. One plane of the returning group was lost when it ran out of fuel while attempting to land. The pilot and gunner were quickly retrieved by the ever-present rescue destroyer.
The Tanikaze was dispatched alone to find the Hiryu and sink it if she was still afloat. Her CO had commented later that he believed this would be a suicide mission for his ship because the Japanese no longer had any air cover to protect them. Other Japanese officers believed that because the Tanikaze distracted the American air group who had expended all their bombs on this ship, prevented further damage to the Japanese Striking and Occupation Force as it withdrew from the battle area. The Tanikaze was sunk by an American submarine near the Philippines in 1944.
ARM1 Karrol was reported missing in action on 5 June 1942. His remains were unrecoverable. His wife and family received telegrams about 18 June 1942 from the Navy Department informing them that Petty Officer Karrol was missing following action in the performance of his duty and in the service to his country. They received a letter from the Navy Department about July 1943 to advise them that after a full review of all available information the Secretary of the Navy was reluctantly forced to the conclusion that Aviation Radioman First Class, Joseph J. Karrol, United States Navy, was deceased. He was reported "missing in action" while a member of Squadron VSB-5, based on the USS Yorktown, when the plane of which he was pilot was shot down by the enemy in the Battle of Midway. His death was presumed to have occurred on the 6th day of June 1943, the day following an absence of twelve months
---------------------------------
ARM1 Karrol was awarded the Navy Cross, Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon, Navy Good Conduct Medal (1940), American Campaign medal, American Defense Medal with bronze "A,* " Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with 3 bronze stars, and the World War II Victory medal. * The bronze "A" was for contact with Axis forces in the Atlantic Ocean between 21 September and 11 October 1941.
------------------------------
Navy Cross Citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Joseph John Karrol, Aviation Radioman First Class, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as free machine gunner and Radioman of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron FIVE, attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN, during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. When his pilot established contact with major enemy units, and in the face of determined opposition, he bravely drove off attacking fighters and sent complete contact and amplifying reports which later enabled our own forces to attack the last remaining enemy aircraft carrier. His brave and gallant action contributed in a large degree to the glorious and decisive victory of our forces and his valorous deeds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 3013 (July 18, 1942)
------------------------------
His family also received a scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of Joseph John Karrol. The citation reads:
In grateful memory of Joseph J. Karrol, who died in the service of his country at SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. Yorktown, 6 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
-------------------------------
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.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls raid 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.
------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway or any aerial combat were NOT eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat was/is the Air Medal.
[Bio #258 composed 19 Aug 2016 by Gerry Lawton (G47/GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor ID#95408
----
JOSEPH JOHN KARROL was the son of Polish immigrants to the United States, Ignace "Ignatius" M Karrol and Stephania "Stella" Stasskiewicz, who married about 1913. Ignace, as he was known, immigrated to the United States about 1906, and his wife, Sophia, immigrated about 1914. Egnis (sic) and his family were enumerated in the 1915 Moriah, Essex, NY state census. He was a miner. According to the census page, Egnis and family lived in Witherbee, Essex, NY. At the time, two children lived in the home; Helen and Joseph. Joseph's other sibling was Victor John Karrol. Ignace continued to work in the Iron mines of Essex County, NY until 1925 when the family moved to Schenectady, NY where he worked for General Electric as a foundryman until the 1940s. Joseph married Stella Mary Wojtyna on 18 Sep 1938 in Vallejo, Solano, CA. Their first child, Stella Elaine was born in San Diego on 30 Aug 1939 and their second child, a posthumous baby, was Joseph John Jr born in the Chelsea Naval hospital, Chelsea, Suffolk, MA on 01 Aug 1942. Stella died in Florida at the age of 98 on 14 Aug 2016. She was buried in the South Florida National Cemetery, Lake Worth, Palm Beach, FL. The inscription of her grave marker reads: "With God and her sailor now." Stella remained a widow for 74 years.
Joseph completed high school about 1933 in Schenectady. To learn a trade and help his family meet expenses during the Great Depression, Joseph, enlisted in the US Army (according to the 1935 Schenectady, NY city directory). According to the 01 April 1940 US Census in San Diego, CA, Joseph lived in Hawaii in 1935. After his discharge from the Army, Karrol presumably enlisted in the US Navy (NSN:238-55-11) in 1936 in California as an Apprentice Seaman (AS). He probably attended recruit training at the Naval Training Station (NTS), San Diego. There, he was administered an aptitude exam, the scores from which, indicated that he was qualified for the communications field. After he completed "boot camp," SA Karrol attended the 17-Week Communications Service "Class A" school. He graduated with the designation as a radioman striker. It isn't known when Karrol was transferred to the USS Yorktown, but it was before 01 April 1940. On that date, RM3 Karrol, Stella and daughter Elaine lived San Diego, CA. The following year, Stella returned with her daughter to Boston, MA to be near her family. She also worked as a telephone operator in 1941. On 01 Aug 1942, she gave birth to a (posthumous) son, Joseph John Karrol, Jr., at the Chelsea Naval Hospital in Boston. Stella and Joseph were high school graduates.
From the time of her commissioning on 30 Sep 1937 at the Naval Station, Norfolk, VA, the Yorktown was assigned to the Atlantic Fleet. On 20 April 1939, Yorktown departed Hampton Roads and steamed to San Diego via the Panama Canal. In June 1940, Yorktown repositioned to Pearl Harbor where she conducted operations in the area between the US West Coast and Hawaii until the spring of 1941. On 31 Aug 1940, RM3 Joseph J. Karrol reported on board the USS Pennsylvania as a passenger from USS Yorktown. He was going to the West Coast on leave. He arrived in California on 7 Sept 1940 in a leave status. He returned from leave several weeks later. Yorktown got underway from Pearl Harbor on 20 April 1941 and transited the Panama Canal on the night of 6-7 May. She steamed to Bermuda arriving on 12 May 1941 as a member of the US Neutrality patrol.
Karrol was with the squadron through its transition at Norfolk from the Northrop BT-1 to the famous Douglas SBD "Dauntless," and flew patrols from Yorktown when that carrier covered convoys in the North Atlantic into the late fall of 1941. During her Neutrality patrol assignment, Yorktown conducted four patrols in the Atlantic ranging from Argentia, Newfoundland to Bermuda while enforcing American neutrality. Yorktown returned to Norfolk arriving on 2 Dec 1941. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Yorktown departed Norfolk on 16 Dec 1941 for the Pacific. She steamed into San Diego 30 Dec 1941.
Soon after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Yorktown participated in raids on Japanese forward bases in the Marshall and Gilbert Islands. Lt Samuel Adams (Karrol may have been his gunner) led a section of Dauntless dive bombers from VB-5 in raids against Japanese forces at Jaluit on 1 Feb 1942. He again led a section of SBDs in raids on Japanese shipping of Lae and Salamaua, New Guinea on 10 Mar 1942. Later he led sections on raids against Tulagi on 4 May 1942 and in the Battle of the Coral Sea (7-8 May 1942).
The Yorktown was damaged during the battle of the Coral Sea. She returned as quickly as possible to Pearl Harbor docking on 27 May 1942. She was hastily repaired in order that she might join the US forces preparing for the Battle of Midway. During the few days inport (27-29 May), the Yorktown Air Group was broken up much to the consternation of Admiral Fletcher and Captain Buckmaster. The stated reason for the break-up was to help fill-out other newly forming squadrons. Yorktown squadrons, Fighting Forty Two (VF-42), Torpedo Five (VT-5), and Scouting Five (VS-5), were ordered to remain ashore when Yorktown repairs were completed. Only Lt. Wally Short's Bombing Five (VB-5) would be retained on board.
After transfers of many veteran pilots to other assignments, VB-5 was left with only ten seasoned pilots. The squadron received 10 new, untested pilots. Of these ten, only two had carrier experience. Three quarters of the Yorktown Air Group were replacements from the damaged Saratoga's displaced air group. These included Lcdr. Max Leslie's Bombing Three (VB-3), Lcdr. John "Jimmy" Thach's Fighting Three (VF-3), and Lcdr. Lem Massey's Torpedo Three (VT-3). Yorktown now had two bombing squadrons on board. This caused much confusion on the flight deck and the ship in general. In order to alleviate the situation, Bombing Five was temporarily renamed Scouting Five (VSB-5). The renaming of VB-5 did not sit well with the squadron's personnel, but it did relieve the confusion caused by having two different bombing squadrons on board. Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor on 28 May 1942, and with Hornet, steamed toward a point Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed on 30 May. The forces rendezvoused on 2 Jun 1942.
At 0700 on the morning of 4 Jun 1942, the first strike packages from Enterprise air group along with those from the USS Hornet (CV-8) began launching to intercept and attack the Japanese carrier fleet approaching the Midway Atoll.
At first light that same morning, Yorktown launched ten Dauntless scout-bombers (VSB-5) on a search mission toward the northern semi-circle at a distance of 100 miles as a precaution against surprise by enemy carriers. Lt. Adams and his gunner, Aviation Radioman First Class (ARM1) Joseph J. Karrol were originally scheduled to fly in the search group. However, Lt Adams "pulled rank" on the junior mission scheduling officer and switched assignments. Lt Adams would fly with the strike group. The scouts returned at about 0830 with negative search results. The deck was then spotted for take-off of the strike package. Between 1030 to 1050 Yorktown launched her strike group consisting of seventeen Dauntless Dive-Bombers (VB) from Bombing Three, twelve VT from Torpedo Three and six fighters from Fighting Three. This strike package was launched just over an hour after Enterprise and Hornet launched their strike groups. Yorktown's strike package found the Soryu and mortally wounded her. Missing, however, from the strike package were the dive-bombers of Scouting Five (VSB-5).
VSB-5 aircraft were spotted last on the deck as pilots manned their planes during the strike group launch. As the preceding planes of the strike package left Yorktown, VSB-5 moved up to their take-off spot only to be told to kill their engines and to return to their Ready Room. Their planes were then lowered down into the hanger bay. In the Ready Room, the pilots learned that only three of the four expected Japanese carriers had been found. As a precaution, Admiral Fletcher had VSB-5 split; ten planes would search for the fourth enemy carrier while seven were withheld as a back-up strike against the fourth enemy carrier if found. Lt Adams was one of the pilots of the ten SBDs on the search mission. At 1115, six fighters were launched for a Combat Air Patrol (CAP) followed immediately by the recovery of the six CAP already airborne. Then the flight deck was respotted with thirteen fighters and seventeen VSB-5 dive-bombers for immediate take-off.
At 1300, 10 SBDs of VSB-5, each armed with 1-1000 pound bomb, were launched to search in pairs assigned sectors out to 250 miles in an arc bearing 280 degrees (T) to 020 degrees (T) (from West Northwest to Northeast). They're mission was to locate and attack enemy carriers. The remaining seven VSB-5 planes on Yorktown were struck below. At about 1630, while on his return leg to Yorktown, Lt Adams and his wingman Ltjg Harlan Rockey Dickson made contact with an enemy force consisting of 1 carrier and escorting ships. Lt Adams made a radio report of the sighting to Yorktown. That report was followed up with a second sighting report sent by Morse Code by ARM1 Karrol. Their accurate and precise positional information was used to guide strike packages launched from Enterprise and Hornet against the Hiryu; the last untouched Japanese carrier. Adams' plane was also attacked by a Zero fighter, but his gunner, ARM1 Karrol, drove it off. Prior to the return of VSB-5, Yorktown was attacked at 1400 by Japanese aircraft and disabled. Her flight deck closed, Yorktown's returning aircraft were vectored to other carriers. One section of returning VSB-5 (2 planes) was forced to land on Hornet and four sections (8 planes) of VSB-5, including Lt Adams and Ltjg Dickson, landed on Enterprise.
The following day, June 5, 1942, a combined air strike comprised of 65 planes from Enterprise and Hornet were sent to find and sink the Hiryu. The strike package was unable to locate the Hiryu (it had already sunk) so they began looking for any other Japanese shipping targets. Without luck plus running low on fuel, the strike group was preparing to return to base when a single ship was sighted. All 65 aircraft would eventually attack the destroyer, Tanikaze, without scoring a single bomb hit. During the melee, one American plane was shot down; Lt Adams and his radioman-gunner, ARM1 Joseph John Karrol, were seen entering a cloud formation, but were never seen again.
The remaining aircraft returned to the two remaining carriers in the dark. Hornet's CO made a risky decision to turn on several search lights to help guide Hornet's planes home. That decision saved many lives and aircraft. Admiral Spruance issued similar orders to illuminate both Hornet's and Enterprise's landing lights at 1933. Several minutes later Enterprise turned on her thirty-six inch searchlights. The Hornet and Enterprise Landing Signal Officers (LSO) performed admirably, bringing sixty-three of the returning planes down safely in the dark. One plane of the returning group was lost when it ran out of fuel while attempting to land. The pilot and gunner were quickly retrieved by the ever-present rescue destroyer.
The Tanikaze was dispatched alone to find the Hiryu and sink it if she was still afloat. Her CO had commented later that he believed this would be a suicide mission for his ship because the Japanese no longer had any air cover to protect them. Other Japanese officers believed that because the Tanikaze distracted the American air group who had expended all their bombs on this ship, prevented further damage to the Japanese Striking and Occupation Force as it withdrew from the battle area. The Tanikaze was sunk by an American submarine near the Philippines in 1944.
ARM1 Karrol was reported missing in action on 5 June 1942. His remains were unrecoverable. His wife and family received telegrams about 18 June 1942 from the Navy Department informing them that Petty Officer Karrol was missing following action in the performance of his duty and in the service to his country. They received a letter from the Navy Department about July 1943 to advise them that after a full review of all available information the Secretary of the Navy was reluctantly forced to the conclusion that Aviation Radioman First Class, Joseph J. Karrol, United States Navy, was deceased. He was reported "missing in action" while a member of Squadron VSB-5, based on the USS Yorktown, when the plane of which he was pilot was shot down by the enemy in the Battle of Midway. His death was presumed to have occurred on the 6th day of June 1943, the day following an absence of twelve months
---------------------------------
ARM1 Karrol was awarded the Navy Cross, Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation w/ribbon, Navy Good Conduct Medal (1940), American Campaign medal, American Defense Medal with bronze "A,* " Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with 3 bronze stars, and the World War II Victory medal. * The bronze "A" was for contact with Axis forces in the Atlantic Ocean between 21 September and 11 October 1941.
------------------------------
Navy Cross Citation reads:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Joseph John Karrol, Aviation Radioman First Class, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as free machine gunner and Radioman of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron FIVE, attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN, during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. When his pilot established contact with major enemy units, and in the face of determined opposition, he bravely drove off attacking fighters and sent complete contact and amplifying reports which later enabled our own forces to attack the last remaining enemy aircraft carrier. His brave and gallant action contributed in a large degree to the glorious and decisive victory of our forces and his valorous deeds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 3013 (July 18, 1942)
------------------------------
His family also received a scroll from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in commemoration of Joseph John Karrol. The citation reads:
In grateful memory of Joseph J. Karrol, who died in the service of his country at SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. Yorktown, 6 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
-------------------------------
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.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls raid 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.
------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway or any aerial combat were NOT eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat was/is the Air Medal.
[Bio #258 composed 19 Aug 2016 by Gerry Lawton (G47/GML470)]
Military Hall of Honor ID#95408
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