Veteran's Day Thoughts

WWII USMC Pilot, Capt. John Lucian Smith (19 kills Pacific Theater)

There are so many Veterans from various engagements that could and should be mentioned here. However, due to time and space, I will mention just one of the less famous heroes from World War two who will take the part of representing them all.

John Lucian Smith was one of six US Marine Corps pilots who received a Medal of Honor for their valiant service during the 1942/43 turning point Battle of Guadalcanal.

It was a terrible battle that for some months looked as though it would swing in favor of the Japanese. However, providentially, the American force had strategically captured the only Japanese airfield on the island at the beginning of the battle. The Japanese would have to fly from their more distant base at Rabaul. The Americans renamed the airfield, Henderson field, quickly repaired it and soon began landing their own planes.

Henderson Field F4 Wildcat fighters (Note: the airfield is still under construction)

After an the initial landing and capture of the airfield the Japanese navy quickly reacted, fought back and managed to drive the American fleet away while they were in the process of landing the first batch of soldiers. They manged to sink several key American in the process. Subsequently the airfield and marines holding it were subjected to a fierce naval bombardment which destroyed and damaged numerous planes and much of their vital equipment.

With the support of the American navy lost, lacking adequate supplies and equipment, the American foothold on the island was precarious and became increasingly dependent on the aircraft and airmen of Henderson field to keep them from being overrun.

US Marine Patrol on Guadalcannal

While the Japanese had an numerically superior air force and slightly better aircraft, they were tenaciously repelled. John Lucian Smith heroically led his squadron to shoot down 83 enemy aircraft in the campaign, downing 19 total himself in the war. By the spring of 1943 the battle was over, and it proved to be a significant turning point in the war.

Smith, and five other airmen from the battle were awarded a medal of honor by President Franklin, D. Roosevelt. Later a movie starring John Wayne revisited their crucial role in turning the tide of the war.

John Wayne Portraying Capt. John L. Smith

Soli Deo Gloria,

Josh

Reform your life and doctrine, meet with God in the text