Daniel J. Callaghan
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| Daniel Judson Callaghan | |
|---|---|
| July 26, 1890 – November 13, 1942 (aged 52) | |
 Rear Admiral Daniel J. Callaghan (as a Captain) |
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| Nickname | Dan |
| Place of birth | San Francisco, California |
| Place of death | KIA at Guadalcanal |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/branch | United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1911–1942 |
| Rank | Rear Admiral |
| Battles/wars | World War II *Battle of Guadalcanal |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Daniel Judson Callaghan (26 July 1890 – 13 November 1942) was an Rear Admiral in the United States Navy who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during World War II.
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[edit] Biography
Born in San Francisco, Calif., 26 July 1890, Callaghan graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1911. His prewar service included command of Truxtun (DD-14), staff duty afloat and ashore, and duty as Naval aide to the President. He commanded San Francisco (CA-38) from May 1941 to May 1942, then served as chief of staff to Robert L. Ghormley, Commander, South Pacific Area and South Pacific Force.
Rear Admiral Callaghan was killed in action in the bitter Naval Battle of Guadalcanal 13 November 1942 while commanding forces that helped turn back a far stronger Japanese fleet. He was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during the action in which he gave his life.
[edit] Namesakes
Two ships have been named USS Callaghan for him.
[edit] Medal of Honor citation
Rank and organization: Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy. Born: 26 July 1892, San Francisco, Calif. Appointed from: California. Entered service at: Oakland, Calif. Other Navy award: Distinguished Service Medal.
Citation:
- For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty during action against enemy Japanese forces off Savo Island on the night of 12-13 November 1942. Although out-balanced in strength and numbers by a desperate and determined enemy, Rear Adm. Callaghan, with ingenious tactical skill and superb coordination of the units under his command, led his forces into battle against tremendous odds, thereby contributing decisively to the rout of a powerful invasion fleet, and to the consequent frustration of a formidable Japanese offensive. While faithfully directing close-range operations in the face of furious bombardment by superior enemy fire power, he was killed on the bridge of his flagship. His courageous initiative, inspiring leadership, and judicious foresight in a crisis of grave responsibility were in keeping with the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the defense of his country.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- This article includes text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.
- history.navy.mil/danfs/ Daniel J. Callaghan, Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships, Department of the Navy.
