Ace of Spades HQ

May 27, 2010

Lt. John Finn, USN (Ret.), Medal of Honor, Passes at 100
— Dave in Texas

Just a couple of months before his 101st birthday. DrewM mentioned him to me last year, when he attended the Pearl Harbor commemoration ceremony in December. Mary Katharine Ham wrote a great piece about him back then too, which included this from his Medal of Honor Citation:

For extraordinary heroism distinguished service, and devotion above and beyond the call of duty. During the first attack by Japanese airplanes on the Naval Air Station, Kaneohe Bay, on 7 December 1941, Lt. Finn promptly secured and manned a .50-caliber machinegun mounted on an instruction stand in a completely exposed section of the parking ramp, which was under heavy enemy machinegun strafing fire.
Although painfully wounded many times, he continued to man this gun and to return the enemy's fire vigorously and with telling effect throughout the enemy strafing and bombing attacks and with complete disregard for his own personal safety. It was only by specific orders that he was persuaded to leave his post to seek medical attention.
Following first aid treatment, although obviously suffering much pain and moving with great difficulty, he returned to the squadron area and actively supervised the rearming of returning planes. His extraordinary heroism and conduct in this action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

Chief Ordnanceman John Finn being congratulated by his wife Alice after being awarded the Medal of Honor

He was the oldest surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. He served in the Navy until 1947.

RIP Lt. Finn.

Posted by: Dave in Texas at 03:54 PM | Comments (70)
Post contains 276 words, total size 2 kb.

1 This is a true mensch. RIP Lt. Finn.

Posted by: Kratos (missing from the side of Mt Olympus) at May 27, 2010 03:56 PM (c0A3e)

2 Godspeed, Sailor. May you be greeted in Heaven by your buddies and a crowd of pinup girls.

Posted by: sifty at May 27, 2010 03:56 PM (n/4Ll)

3 We made them great back then.

Posted by: NJConservative at May 27, 2010 03:57 PM (LH6ir)

4 One of our nation's best.

Rest in peace.

Posted by: logprof at May 27, 2010 03:59 PM (Mmw0q)

5 So sad to see this generation leaving us...RiP.

Posted by: garrett at May 27, 2010 03:59 PM (EjnWG)

6 Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd'st the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

RIP Lt. Finn

Posted by: Andy at May 27, 2010 04:00 PM (NjN7i)

7 Wow, RIP Lt. John Finn.

Posted by: runningrn at May 27, 2010 04:00 PM (CfmlF)

8 We still make them great. Our nation just doesn't pay them much mind.

R.I.P., sir. You represented the best of your generation.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 04:01 PM (UOM48)

9 We owe it to men like him--to NOT let this country go down the tubes

Posted by: SantaRosaStan at May 27, 2010 04:01 PM (JrRME)

10 What a contrast, a wonderful hero like Lt. Finn who honored this country for so long, and then that fucking asshole that currently resides in the White House. RIP Lt. Finn.

Posted by: conscious, but incoherent at May 27, 2010 04:02 PM (YVZlY)

11 I read the local obituaries every Sunday in the paper. It seems like the Greatest Generation WWII are all passing on. There's always at least 3 or 4 in the notices. So sad. This great country was built on their service and sacrifice. I also appreciate those who continue to serve in the Armed Forces despite who their CinC is. So sad that their Commander is not fit to lead them. Thanks to all who serve(d). I appreciate all of you.

Posted by: runningrn at May 27, 2010 04:03 PM (CfmlF)

12 9 We owe it to men like him--to NOT let this country go down the tubes

Amen.

Posted by: Kratos (missing from the side of Mt Olympus) at May 27, 2010 04:03 PM (c0A3e)

13 I saw a video not long ago of a young Marine. Blind, lost both legs, re-enlisting.

Made me cry. We still make those young people.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 04:04 PM (UOM48)

14 Yeah, but what has he done for me lately?

Posted by: Commander-in-Chief B.H. O'Bama at May 27, 2010 04:06 PM (0FSRu)

I hear TAPS softly playing...

Rest in Peace Lt. Finn

Posted by: Count de Monet at May 27, 2010 04:07 PM (2g2ex)

16 That's a tough thing to hear just now. People that are willing to make a stand like that just might be needed in the not too distant future.
RIP.

Posted by: ontherocks at May 27, 2010 04:07 PM (kjXuP)

17 The Lt. acted stupidly. He should have run for cover. It's what a Harvard man like me would have done.

Where's my wagyu? Leave me alone, Malia. I'll talk to you about plugging the hole, later. Go talk to your mom. She's in the garden with the serfs.

Posted by: CiC Barry for Life at May 27, 2010 04:08 PM (UOM48)

For people in the NY/NJ area, Chris Christie is doing a live call in show on Channel 13.

Posted by: The Outlaw in the Heavenly Hall at May 27, 2010 04:10 PM (JlrhB)

19 Thank you, Lt. Finn. Rest in peace.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at May 27, 2010 04:10 PM (Yq+qN)

20 This is from a time when Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue. We could learn a lot from men like this.

Posted by: Redriverted at May 27, 2010 04:11 PM (oDe7f)

21 America! Fuck Yeah!!

Posted by: An admirer of Lt. Finn at May 27, 2010 04:12 PM (dvrc9)

22 He was a handsome young guy. What a tragic, yet romantic time that was. Everyone looked so full of hope.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 04:13 PM (UOM48)

23 Go with God Sailor.

Posted by: robtr at May 27, 2010 04:13 PM (fwSHf)

24 Speaking of Pearl Harbor. Ben Affleck's best bud is being honored tonight on ABC.

Matt Damon!

Sigh.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 04:15 PM (UOM48)

A true Hero.

Godspeed sir.

Posted by: Bosk at May 27, 2010 04:15 PM (pUO5u)

26 #27

Word.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 04:16 PM (UOM48)

27 As I was flying from Dallas to Charlotte today, there was a 1st Cav. private in his dress greens on the plane. He didn't look old enough to be out of middle school.

He was coming home on leave, and the US Air people were working with him to get him on the flight, which was jam-packed. Fortunately everything worked out.

As we were preparing to depart, the flight attendant announced that there was a VIP on the plane and asked everyone to give him a round of applause, which they did with great effect.

God bless that soldier and the thousands of others like him who make such great sacrifices to secure the blessings of liberty.

Posted by: Andy at May 27, 2010 04:17 PM (NjN7i)

28 CDR M

Great. Experienced his first earthquake yesterday on Okinawa. Heh. Things are interesting because of the NORKS. Here he thought all he had to worry about was Afghanistan.

Thanks for asking. He's upbeat and having "fun".

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 04:20 PM (UOM48)

29 They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;
These see the works of the LORD, and his wonders in the deep.
For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.
They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble.
They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wits' end.
Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.
He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.

-Psalm 107: 23 -30

Posted by: Techie at May 27, 2010 04:28 PM (zbH+i)

30 God bless you, sir.

Posted by: The War Between the Undead States at May 27, 2010 04:40 PM (Pgd5B)

31 CDR M

Yeah, so far it's been semi-typhoon season since he's been there. He stood fire watch one night where he swore he thought he was in a typhoon.

He's got a great roomie I met at his MOS graduation when I brought him home. They're both into music (and comedy). He loves the Corps.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 04:41 PM (UOM48)

32 Thank you Lt. Finn. Rest in Peace.

Posted by: Pulchritudinous Patriot at May 27, 2010 04:45 PM (jDFoE)

33 He's at Camp Foster, I believe.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 04:47 PM (UOM48)

34 Wow. Is it just me or was the period from '41 to '46 just one of those times when giants walked the earth? It sucks that they are leaving. Well done, sir, well done. Godspeed.

Posted by: turfmann at May 27, 2010 04:48 PM (l4J9G)

35 We still have young heroes serving and arriving. Never forget that. And don't forget they're all volunteers.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 04:51 PM (UOM48)

36 From the Noble Grand Humbug:

Brothers of Squibob Chapter,

It grieves me deeply to report that Lt. John William Finn, US Navy (ret), has answered the silver clarion hewgag call and left for the diggins beyond the Golden Hills. Lt. Finn was the first person to receive the Medal of Honor for actions during World War II and at the time of his death at the age of 100 was the oldest surviving Medal of Honor receipient.. He passed away this morning (Thursday, May 27, 2009) shortly before 6:00a at his home near Pine Valley.

Those of us that we fortunate to meet John will remember the twinkle in his eye, the firmness of his handshake, and -- most of all -- his insistance that he was just a ordinary person thrown into extraordinary circumstances that Sunday morning on December 7, 1941. He was a true patriot and friend to all.

On the occasion of his 100th birthday celebration on June 24 ,2009, Lt. Finn was made an honorary member of John P. Squibob Chapter #1853.

At this time, plans are for John to be buried on the Campo Indian Reservation alongside his wife Alice, who preceeded him in death in 1998. He will be buried will full military honors. Details on services will be forwarded as they become available in the coming days.

Please keep John and his family in your thoughts and prayers God bless John William Finn and God bless the United States of America!

Andy

--------------------

Andy Davies
Noble Grand Humbug

Ancient and Honorable Order of E Clampus VitusÂ®
John P. Squibob Chapter #1853
San Diego and Imperial Counties

What sayeth the Bretheren?

Posted by: John P. Squibob at May 27, 2010 04:54 PM (jk631)

37 "Be thou at peace..."

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at May 27, 2010 04:55 PM (DrCYm)

38 RIP, Lt Finn! Another great one goes home.
Someone told me that even Generals have to salute Medal of Honor recipients, despite the recipient's rank.

Thanks for that story, Andy!

Posted by: incognito at May 27, 2010 04:55 PM (u6X4c)

Piffle! That's nothing! Here's real bravery: Barry's kid asking him this morning if he had plugged the hole, and him having to tearfully tell her he had not. But by this afternoon, miracle of miracles, he has done it!

That old softie, Chris Matthews, is in tears.

But the good Lt. Pitt is in heaven, and one of the sweetest perks up there is that MSNBC is blocked.

Posted by: sherlock at May 27, 2010 04:57 PM (thr9V)

40 Oh shit - Lt. Finn! I could screw up eating an icecream cone!

Posted by: sherlock at May 27, 2010 04:59 PM (thr9V)

I looked up the LT on Wikipedia and then looked at the list of how they cross-referenced MOH recipients which included a link to a list of living recipients. The youngest one is 59 (he'll turn 60 on June 14th). It's a damn shame that no living recipient from the current conflict has, as yet, been recognized.

RIP LT Finn.

Posted by: CavMedic at May 27, 2010 05:10 PM (rYFmu)

42 Don't worry Lt. Your President Barack Hussein Obama will be recognizing you and your fellow heroes on Memorial Day at Arlington National Cemetery.

_Wait...what?

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 05:30 PM (UOM48)

43 sherlock@44

You'll be amazed to know, Chris Matthews is out of love with the one. Seriously.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 05:31 PM (UOM48)

44 He sure was a handsome fella too.

Rest in peace Lt. Finn and thank you for your faithful service to our country.

Posted by: Mary Beth at May 27, 2010 05:33 PM (JPEqm)

45 #47--far's I'm concerned, it's just as well he doesn't soil the earth there. Better he associates with his Chicago brethren.

Posted by: irongrampa at May 27, 2010 05:37 PM (ud5dN)

46 I recently saw something on the Military Channel on the Pearl Harbor attacks. Finn was definitely an unforgetable character. It seems like nothing could stop that guy. I was always impressed by his spirit. Godspeed Lt. Finn!

Posted by: huh? at May 27, 2010 05:42 PM (6SGWt)

47 I won't go into my belief last night that I totally believe that this dear man is with his beloved wife.

I feel for people who think we just die and become worm food.

Enjoy your eternity with your Maker, sir. And keep the rest of us in your prayers.

Posted by: Jane D'oh at May 27, 2010 05:42 PM (UOM48)

48 St. Peter just called Attention on Deck. Fair winds and following seas Lt. Finn. See you at the silver dollar bar, I'm buying.

Posted by: Bill N at May 27, 2010 05:48 PM (RYJu6)

49 Allow me to play some Big Band era Sinatra and hoist a Budweiser for this brave soul. I felt stressed driving to work today, this guy was involved in saving the world.

Posted by: Aaron at May 27, 2010 05:50 PM (pSM+3)

50 Cav Medic there will never again be a living MOH recipient. No politician Rep or Dem will have one for fear that the MOH recepient will BM them about war policy. Our political class for the most part is a bunch of fuckin' cowards.

Posted by: Bill N at May 27, 2010 05:53 PM (RYJu6)

51 Let your rifles rest on the muddy floor, You will not need them any more. DangerÂ’s past;
Now at last, Go to sleep!Â”

Posted by: GarandFan at May 27, 2010 06:13 PM (6mwMs)

52 At least we don't have worry about B+rry getting a CMOH.

Posted by: torabora at May 27, 2010 06:16 PM (HjQr+)

53
A real hero, heart and soul.

Posted by: Lemon Kitten at May 27, 2010 06:44 PM (0fzsA)

I love posts like this one. Thank you Dave for reminding us to honor those who sacrificed for their and our families to live in a safe and free nation.

Today I attended the memorial service for my grandmother who passed away a few weeks ago. May 27 would have been her 92nd birthday. My grandfather, her husband, who passed away many years ago, flew transports in Korea and jumped out of two burning airplanes while serving our country.

In her last days, my grandmother's mind was as sharp....and conservative!....as ever. OMG I would love to post some of her opinions...but then, I'd probably be deemed a racist! LOL.....

I will work from now until my dying day to bring back to our country the values her family embraced and valued as one of our greatest generation. I feel it is my responsibility to see those values once again embodied in future generations of Americans. Thanks Ace and Dave and the other Dave and Gabe and all y'all other folks who blog and think and participate in debating how we can make this nation better for everyone.

AoSHQ is my new home away from home. And as I'm having an Irish wake celebration this evening, cheers to all y'all who want to drink with me. CHEERS!

And I can't tell all y'all morons how much I appreciate your posts on a daily basis! My thanks go out to Ace and all his Ewoks for

Posted by: NC Ref at May 27, 2010 06:51 PM (jP+f6)

55 now thats a man.

Posted by: thug at May 27, 2010 07:25 PM (SqBIL)

56 What a snazzy looking couple.

Posted by: moi at May 27, 2010 07:32 PM (Ez4Ql)

57 The clear, lonely finality of Taps. Still chokes a genuine tear outta this ol' Marine. R.I.P. Sailor.

Posted by: hachie1 at May 27, 2010 07:40 PM (FXtu9)

58 I could kick his pansy ass!

Posted by: Pansy Asskicker at May 27, 2010 07:55 PM (3a3e+)

59 And we worry about a little lead paint on a toy. This guy had more lead in him that most people will ever have.

Posted by: crosspatch at May 27, 2010 07:57 PM (ZbLJZ)

60 Does Navy really count as part of the military?

Posted by: O Orah at May 28, 2010 03:46 AM (3vYSy)

61 He was all over the Military Channel. They asked him what he was doing the morning of the attack. He said he was in bed with a beautiful woman.

Posted by: FUBAR at May 28, 2010 03:57 AM (1fanL)

62 Fair winds and smooth seas to you, sailor. RIP.

Posted by: damian at May 28, 2010 05:33 AM (4WbTI)

63 Home is the sailor, home from the sea.

Posted by: Lisa at May 28, 2010 06:09 AM (abHWU)

64 The citation read LT, but he was obviously a Chief Petty Officer. Godspeed to a good man.

Posted by: Darren Lee at May 28, 2010 06:48 AM (5ou28)

65 RIP, Lt. Finn.

Posted by: Sue at May 28, 2010 06:55 AM (RybmS)

66 Godspeed Sir.

Posted by: The Chicken at May 28, 2010 08:11 AM (k2Fyd)

67 See that! That's a real man! God bless you, sir

Posted by: kal at May 28, 2010 07:22 PM (W4JgG)

68 Met Finn in Chicago last year. Amazingly feisty at 101. Wish I could be the same. If you have not seen the PBS special on the Medal of Honor, make sure you see Finn's clip. Gets so mad at his commanding officers over the defense of Pearl Harbor. Cracks me up every time.

Posted by: jeff at May 31, 2010 04:05 PM (7z1z2)

69 more on John Finn here, www.ddaymuseum.org

Posted by: jeff at May 31, 2010 04:06 PM (7z1z2)