This highest award possible from the United States Government was given to only 7 American submariners. Three of them were posthumous. The four surviving recipients are/were Members of SHARKHUNTERS.

The CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL of HONOR was awarded to Commander Eugene B. Fluckey, which states:

the President of the United States in the name of the Congress takes pleasure in presenting the MEDAL OF HONOR to: COMMANDER EUGENE B. FLUCKEY, UNITED STATES NAVY

for service as set forth in the following CITATION:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer, USS BARB during her eleventh war patrol along the east coast of China from 19 December 1944 to 15 February 1945. After sinking a large enemy ammunition ship and damaging additional tonnage during a running two hour night battle on 8 January, Commander Fluckey in an exceptional feat of brilliant deduction and bold tracking on 23 February, located a concentration of more than 30 enemy ships in the lower reaches of Nankuan Chiang (Mamkwan Harbor). Fully aware that a safe retirement would necessitate an hour’s run at full speed through the uncharted, mined and rock-obstructed waters, he bravely ordered, “Battle Stations - - torpedoes!”

In a daring penetration of the heavy enemy screen & riding in five fathoms of water, Commander Fluckey launched the BARB’s last forward torpedoes at 3,000 yard range. Quickly bringing the ship’s stern tubes to bear, he turned loose four more torpedoes into the enemy, obtaining eight direct hits on six of the main targets to explode a large ammunition ship and cause inestimable damage by the resultant flying shells and other pyrotechnics. Clearing the treacherous area at high speed, he brought the BARB through to safety and four days later sank a large Japanese Freighter to complete a record of hectic combat achievement. By his personal bravery, gallant initiative, and complete devotion to duty, Commander Fluckey reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

SHARKHUNTERS is proud that RADM FLUCKEY (2169-C-1992) is a Member & serves on our BOARD of ADVISORS. He is the MOST HIGHLY decorated USN submariner in history and the most highly decorated US serviceman (any branch) living today.

Thanks to CAPT. JOHN VICK (233-1987) for this info.