Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
John
Calhoun
Parham
Jr.
1908-03-25

–

1989-10-01

John Parham graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1931. He retired as a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Jouett (DD-396)

    Action Date:

    June 3 – 24, 1944
    Commander Naval Forces Europe: Serial 9564 (October 11, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander John Calhoun Parham, Jr. (NSN: 0-70348), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. JOUETT (DD-396), in action against enemy forces during the assault on the Continent of Europe from 3 to 24 June 1944. Charged with the protection of heavy combatant ships, transports and other craft against enemy surface, submarine and aerial forces, Commander Parham skillfully directed his vessel, thereby enabling all ships in his assigned area to escape without damage. His seamanship, courage and zealous devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Jouett (DD-396)

    Action Date:

    January 4 & 5, 1944
    Commander Fourth Fleet: Serial 850 (February 8, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Commander John Calhoun Parham, Jr. (NSN: 0-70348), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. JOUETT (DD-396) during action against German blockade runners in the South Atlantic Area. Determined and aggressive in carrying out a vital mission, Commander Parham boldly intercepted a hostile vessel on 4 January and on 5 January 1944, engaging the enemy with devastating fire on both occasions and enabling the JOUETT to score accurate hits on the German ships, thereby contributing materially to their destruction. Commander Parham’s forceful leadership, his superb ship-handling and fearless devotion to duty were essential factors in the success of the campaign against German blockade runners and raiders in this important area. (Commander Parham is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)