Navy Federal Credit Union

John Eversole graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1938. All 14 pilots of Torpedo Squadron 6 (VT-6) received the Navy Cross for their actions during the Air Battle of Midway. NINE of the fourteen received posthumous awards and were carried as Missing in Action following the engagement.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Batallion:

    Torpedo Squadron 6 (VT-6)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6)

    Action Date:

    June 4, 1942

    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 309 (December 1942)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade John Thomas Eversole (NSN: 0-81215), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron SIX (VT-6), attached to the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the “Air Battle of Midway,” against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Participating in a vigorous and intensive assault against the Japanese invasion fleet, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Eversole pressed home his attack with relentless determination in the face of a terrific barrage of anti-aircraft fire. The unprecedented conditions under which his squadron launched its offensive were so exceptional that it is highly improbably the occasion may ever recur where other pilots of the service will be called upon to demonstrate an equal degree of gallantry and fortitude. His extreme disregard of personal safety contributed materially to the success of our forces and his loyal conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.