Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
James
Marshall
Shoemaker
1895-06-23

–

1983-06-20

Home:

Helena

, 

Montana

James Shoemaker graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1915. He retired as a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    U.S.S. Franklin (CV-13)

    Action Date:

    October 25, 1944
    Commander 2d Carrier Task Force Pacific: Serial 01054 (January 20, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain James Marshall Shoemaker (NSN: 0-9039), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the forward Pacific Area, 25 October 1944. During an engagement with a major detachment of the enemy Fleet, Captain Shoemaker skillfully and effectively commanded his ship to contribute in large measure to the decisive defeat of the hostile force. In this action all four of the enemy carriers in the force were suck and most of the remaining ships were either damaged or destroyed. His inspiring leadership, professional skill and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Captain Shoemaker and the United States Naval Service.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Action Date:

    June – September 1942
    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 4526 (April 18, 1946)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Captain James Marshall Shoemaker (NSN: 0-9039), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander Carriers, Pacific Fleet, Subordinate Command (Administration) during the period from June to September 1942. By his initiative, perseverance and outstanding ability he organized and directed the training of new air groups for the SARATOGA, ENTERPRISE and HORNET under the trying and difficult circumstances immediately following the Battle of Midway with eminently successful results, as attested by the record of these groups in later operations. His outstanding service and performance of duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commodore [then Captain]

    Action Date:

    World War II
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 05665 (August 21, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commodore [then Captain] James Marshall Shoemaker (NSN: 0-9039), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander of Naval Air Bases, Philippine Islands and as Commander Naval Air Base, Samar, during our offensive operations in the Philippine Islands Area. Handicapped by extremely difficult conditions, Commodore Shoemaker devised plans for a major Naval air base in this area and brought it into efficient operation. In addition, he was responsible for the aviation logistic support for all Naval and Marine units operating in this area. By his professional skill and leadership Commodore Shoemaker contributed materially to the success of our aerial forces in the Philippine Islands, and his devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.