Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
James
Charles
Oster
POW (WWII) KIA
March 26, 1907

–

October 24, 1944

Cemetery:

A.B.M.C. Manila

James Oster became a Prisoner of War after the fall of the Philippine Islands, and died in the sinking of the Japanese “Hellship” Arisan Maru on October 24, 1944.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Chief Boatswain

    Division:

    Cavite Navy Yard

    Action Date:

    December 10, 1941
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 302 (May 1942)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Chief Boatswain James Charles Oster (NSN: 73938), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct and efficiency in time of stress while serving as Tugmaster, Cavite Navy Yard, during the bombardment of that station in the Philippine Islands by Japanese air forces beginning 10 December 1941, and during subsequent occupation by the Japanese of Manila Bay Area. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

  • Prisoner of War Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Chief Boatswain

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (Philippine Islands)

    Action Date:

    May 6, 1942 – October 24, 1944
    NARA Database: Records of World War II Prisoners of War, created, 1942 – 1947

    Chief Boatswain James Charles Oster (NSN: 73938), United States Navy, was captured by the Japanese after the fall of Corregidor, Philippine Islands, on 6 May 1942, and was held as a Prisoner of War until his death while in captivity on or about 24 October 1944.