how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet

Admiral Chester W. Nimitz called him a fine man, a sterling character, and a great leader, and said, nothing you can say about him would be praise enough. [7], He commanded the Percival during the sea trials off the California coast and during the patrol cruises with the Destroyer Force, Pacific Fleet until May 1922, when he was ordered to Washington, D.C., for duty in the Bureau of Engineering under Rear Admiral John K. Robison. Hiryu class Japanese aircraft carrier that was part of the second detachment of the Japanese carrier strike force. The U.S. Navy counterforce sank all four Japanese carriers while losing one of its own, Yorktown. On April 22, Task Force 58s guns and planes supported the U.S. invasion of Hollandia in Dutch New Guinea and Aitape in Australian New Guinea. Three bombs hammered her. A number of strategic and tactical errors contributed to the Japanese defeat: Yamamotos virtual isolation on the bridge of Yamato and his failure to maintain an overall grip on the strategic situation; a loss of nerve on the part of Nagumo; tradition that led Yamaguchi and other enemy commanders to go down with their ships instead of trying to recover the initiative; insufficient reconnaissance against the U.S. carriers; a lack of high-altitude fighter cover; inadequate fire precautions aboard the ships; and the launching of airstrikes from all four fleet carriers at the same time, so that there was a critical period when the Japanese carrier force had little defensive capability. He disliked personal publicity and had a reputation for freezing reporters who invaded his privacy. Captain George C. Dyer of the light cruiser Astoria, who served under both Spruance and Halsey, summed up the view of many ship captains: My feeling was one of confidence when Spruance was there. He suggested Spruance replace him as commander of the Fleet carrier force, despite the fact that Spruce had little experience with carriers. Following the war, Spruance served as US Ambassador to the Philippines from 1952 to 1955. The battle commenced on the morning of June4; the first several waves of U.S. attack aircraft were badly beaten, both near Midway and at sea around the Japanese task force. Born on 3 July 1886, Spruance graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1906. Japanese escort carrier that was mainly responsible for launching scouts attached to Combined Fleet main body. This was in July 1938, and this time he was the battleships commander. Admiral William L. Calhoun saw him as a cold-blooded fighting fool. But they expected it to come at the obvious and exposed outer fringe, and when we struck at the heart of the archipelago with a huge fleet that had approached undetected, we enjoyed complete tactical surprise. Meanwhile, his search planes found no sign of any American warships. In 1939 he was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral. [21] Buell quotes Spruance speaking with Morison: As a matter of tactics I think that going out after the Japanese and knocking their carriers out would have been much better and more satisfactory than waiting for them to attack us, but we were at the start of a very important and large amphibious operation and we could not afford to gamble and place it in jeopardy. Early on, Halsey had led his task force on hit-and-run raids against the Japanese in the western Pacific: striking the Gilbert and Marshall islands in February 1942, Wake Island in March, and projecting the air power of the Doolittle Raid against the Japanese homeland in April. Hickman, Kennedy. "When I look at myself objectively," he wrote in retirement, "I think that what success I may have achieved through life is largely due to the fact that I am a good judge of men. On April 28, the last day of the invasion, Spruances command was redesignated as the Fifth Fleet. He was responsible for leading the 5th Fleet into the pivotal Battle of the Philippines Sea, nicknamed the 'Great Marianas Turkey Shoot' because a total of 365 Japanese planes were brought down. Most of Nagumo's attack planes had just returned from the first strike on Midway and were immobilized on the carrier hangers, while his combat air patrol cover planes were engaged with battling torpedo bombers from Hornet. Then Nagumos force was spotted by torpedo bombers from Hornets squadron VT-8, led by Lt. Cmdr. Spruance did not want to leave troops on the Marianas islands unguarded as he chased Jisaburo Ozawas retreating fleet. With World War I raging, he became Assistant Engineer Officer of the New York Navy Yard. In 1939 he was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral. With their 233 planes and crews at the ready, the three U.S. flattops were stationed well north of Midway, out of sight of enemy reconnaissance planes. On February 26, 1940, Spruance reported as commandant of the 10th Naval District with headquarters at Naval Station Isla Grande in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Saipan campaign began with air attacks on June 10, 1944. Though the fourth, Hiryu, managed to launch bombers which caused critical damage to Yorktown, it too was sunk when American aircraft returned later in the day. He did not discuss his private life, feelings, prejudices, hopes or fears, except perhaps with his family and his closest friends. The US intelligence services could predict the way the Japanese carriers and planes would be approaching the battle. Thus the Americans knew the Japanese planned to move toward Midway. Admiral Nimitz praised Spruance for a remarkable job. Yet the decision is hailed by the series's narrator as instrumental in sealing the American victory. He shifted his flag to the old battleship USSNew Mexico of the shore bombardment force after Indianapolis was struck by a Kamikaze off Okinawa. US Naval Task Force under Frank Fletcher with aircraft carrier Yorktown. His division was an element of the task force built around the aircraft carrier USSEnterprise and commanded by Vice Admiral William F. Halsey, Jr. Answer: Admiral Yamamoto had hoped to fight a classic-style sea battle with battleships, but Spruance had proved that the aircraft carrier was now emerging as the capital ship of naval combat forces. Born on 3 July 1886, Spruance graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1906. Raymond A. Spruance emerged from the battle one of the greatest admirals in American naval history". All four of Japans aircraft carriers were sunk, devastating Japans ambitions in the Pacific. This gave rise to the description of Spruance as "an Admiral's admiral". "World War II: Admiral Raymond Spruance." ThoughtCo, Jul. At the Battle of the Coral Sea, the Japanese won a tactical victory, but suffered an operational-level defeat: it did not invade Port . I am lazy, and I never have done things myself that I could get someone to do for me. About his intellect he was equally unpretentious: "Some people believe that when I am quiet that I am thinking some deep and important thoughts, when the fact is that I am thinking of nothing at all. Spruance succeeded Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz as Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet and Pacific Ocean Areas in November 1945, a few months after the end of the war. Admiral Raymond Ames Spruance was a key American naval commander who served in the Pacific Theater of World War II. The Japanese intercepted this and soon started sending messages that "AF was short on water. Raymond Ames Spruance was born in Baltimore, Maryland on July 3, 1886, to Alexander and Annie Spruance, but grew up in Indianapolis. He graduated from Shortridge High School and went on to the U.S. Before Midway, a small and fractional U.S. Navy faced an overwhelmingly larger and battle-hardened Japanese Combined Fleet. He graduated from the U.S. But due to a printing error on the executive calendar of nominations, Spruance was officially promoted only to his former rank of vice admiral. He managed to gain an appointment from Indiana to the U.S. United States bombers sank three Japanese ships. The Japanese were trying to tow Soryu to safety when she was torpedoed and sunk by the U.S. submarine Nautilus. The Navy, by law, was limited to four Fleet Admirals; three of these appointments were obvious: Ernest King, Chester Nimitz and William Leahy. His entry in Whos Who in America was only three lines long (including his full name), and a footnote in Morisons monumental history of the U.S. Navy in World War II testifies to his modesty. [12] Spruance assumed command of Task Force 16 with its two carriers, USSEnterprise and USSHornet, under battle command of Admiral Frank Jack Fletcher. Pratt, F. "Spruance: Picture of the Admiral," Harpers Magazine 193, no. Enterprise dive bombers critically damaged two Japanese carriers including Nagumo's flagship Akagi; while the Yorktown air group, launched after Fletcher was confident that all Japanese carriers were accounted for, crippled the Soryu. During WWII Italian Commandos Were Tasked to Ride Torpedoes. On June 4, Spruance and Fletcher engaged four Japanese carriers at the Battle of Midway. U.S. losses were low: 25 airplanes and 18 lives. >The fleet units shielding the Marianas invasion forces were also under Spruances command. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Close to Japan, Allied planners intended to use Okinawa as a springboard for the eventual invasion of the Home Islands. But his service was not yet finished. In the course of a two-hour interview, he stood or walked about all the timenot restlessly, but slowly and deliberately. The Americans lost 74 carrier planes; the Japanese 80. United States Admiral in command of naval units on the Pacific Theatre in 1942. Despite this, some detractors argued that Spruances tactics at Philippine Sea were overly cautious. Then Nagumo was dumbfounded to receive a search planes report of 10 enemy ships to the northeast, where no U.S. ships were supposed to be. That same year he received a new assignment: assistant machinery inspector at the Newport News, Va., dry dock, where the battleship Pennsylvania was being outfitted. There are submarines, there are mini-submarines, and then there are human torpedoes. catalogued as someone to watch; there was never any possibility that he would be passed over in the lists for promotion. He was then ordered to the China station, with sea duty aboard the battleship Connecticut and the cruiser Cincinnati. The enemy units were forced to withdraw their battered aircraft carrier Shokaku, while the Americans had to abandon the old, cherished carrier Lexington. Yet because of his modest, retiring nature, Spruance was never a popular hero in the manner of Admirals Nimitz, William F. Halsey and Marc A. Mitscher. He remained in the position only briefly as he accepted a posting as President of the Naval War College on February 1, 1946. Yamato class battleship that served as the Japanese Combined Fleet's Flagship, housing Admiral Yamamoto. A number of torpedo squadrons from the airfields and carriers launch attacks on the Japanese carriers but score no hits and almost all planes involved were shot down. As the island-hopping campaign began, MacArthur continued his . Retiring to Pebble Beach, CA, he died there on December 13, 1969. In June 1942 the United States and Japan fought for control of Midway Island in the South Pacific. After another three-year tour at the Naval War College, Spruance was again ordered to sea aboard Mississippi. The carriers were on station on June 2, and the following day Japanese transport ships were spotted 600 miles west of Midway Island. However, an invasion was rendered unnecessary when the atomic bomb was used on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945. A total of 1,132 enemy planes were put out of action. The gallant carrier was crippled but nearly succeeded in reaching safety before torpedoes from Japanese submarine I-68 finally sank her three days later. The recipient of the letter below was his longtime friend and former chief-of-staff Captain Charles "Carl" J. Moore. Make sure to provide references and acknowledgement for any sources you use. Most common sailors were proud to serve under Halsey; most higher-ranking officers preferred to serve under Spruance. Falling ill with shingles, Halsey recommended that Spruance lead Task Force 16, centered on the carriers USS Enterprise (CV-6) and USS Hornet (CV-8), in his stead. Biographies, 20th century collection, Navy Department Library, Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath, Spruance, Raymond A. Japanese aircraft carrier squadron under the command of Chuichi Nagumo in command of aircraft carriers Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, and Hiryu. He commanded U.S. naval forces during two of the most significant naval battles that took place in the Pacific Theatre: the Battle of Midway and the Battle of the Philippine Sea. He also held several engineering, intelligence, staff and Naval War College positions up to the 1940s. He never smoked and drank little. He wrote the day after the attack and the same day he attended funeral services for the 54 Sailors and Marines killed in the attack. For his actions, Spruance received the Distinguished Service Medal and, later that month, Nimitz named him as his Chief of Staff and Aide. In August 1943, Spruance, now a vice admiral, returned to sea as Commander Central Pacific Force. [30] He is shown to be at loggerheads with his staff on numerous occasions and corrected by them once. Furthermore, Spruance ordered that the air squadrons fly directly to their targets before assembling every squadron into a proper formation, gambling that the attacks would leave the enemy carriers in disarray and delay the launching of their own counterstrike. He never did things the same way twice. Morison, "Coral Sea, Midway and Submarine Actions: May 1942 August 1942". Japanese naval force tasked with the invasion of the Aleutian Islands under Vice Admiral Kakuta with aircraft carriers Junyo and Ryuho. Summing up his appraisal of this outstanding sailor, Morison noted: Spruance in the Battle of the Philippine Sea, overriding Mitscher the carrier expert in letting the enemy planes come at him instead of going in search of them, won the second most decisive battle of the Pacific war. [28], His achievements in the navy were well known, but himself much less. Following a stint aboard USS Cincinnati, Spruance was made commander of the destroyer USS Bainbridge in March 1913 with the rank of lieutenant (junior grade). As the war progressed, Spruance became one of two primary . Spruance himself directed a task group of battleships, cruisers and destroyers that left the main body to go after Japanese ships that were fleeing Truk, sinking the light cruiser Katori and destroyer Maikaze. Hickman, Kennedy. Things did not look hopeful for Spruance and his force on the eve of Midway. Lieutenant in command of the USS Enterprise air group. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Four years later, President Harry S. Truman appointed him as Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines. Aboard the Japanese flattops, many torpedo-carrying planes were waiting for fighters to take off as the American planes dived. Nagumo ordered his planes rearmed on their return. Mitschers force pursued the Japanese fleet and engaged it the following day in the Philippine Sea, sinking the light carrier Hiyo and two oilers (in addition to which submarines Albacore and Cavalla had sunk Taiho and Shokaku the previous day). He has appeared on The History Channel as a featured expert. Samuel Eliot Morison agreed: Power of decision and coolness in action were perhaps Spruances leading characteristics. The Americans were gravely outnumbered by the lurking enemy armada. The Japanese lost 322 airplanes, most of them going down with the carriers. A. The Battle of Midway was fought June 4-7, 1942, during World War II (1939-1945) and was the turning point of the war in the Pacific. On August 1, 1941, he finished his tour in Puerto Rico. The Eastern Orthodox Church developed from the church in Constantinople. A bust of Spruance is in the lobby. That December he was elevated to rear admiral, and in February 1940 he was placed in command of the 10th Naval District (Caribbean), with his headquarters in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Overseeing the Battle of Tarawa in November 1943, he guided Allied forces as they advanced through the Gilbert Islands. The U.S. Navy's decisive victory in the air-sea battle (June 3-6, 1942) and its successful defense of the major base located at Midway Island dashed Japan's hopes of neutralizing the United. On February 19, American forces landed and opened the Battle of Iwo Jima. The American losses were Yorktown, destroyer Hammann and 147 planes. He attended grade and high schools in East Orange, N.J., and in Indianapolis. When New Mexico was struck by two kamikaze on the night of 12 May 1945 a hasty search by Spruance's staff found the Admiral manning a fire hose amidship. To the Aleutians, the Japanese dispatched an invasion task force of three transports carrying 2,400 troops, supported by two heavy cruisers, a two-carrier support force and a covering group of four battleships. It would become on of the last aircraft carriers to be sunk in a war in all of history during the battle of Leyte Gulf 2-3 years later. This site is using cookies under cookie policy . In 1949, naval historian Samuel Eliot Morison noted that Spruance was subjected to criticism for not pursuing the retreating Japanese and allowing the surface fleet to escape. Then he returned to the Naval War College as a staff member. The defeat effectively destroyed the Japanese Navy's air arm. In July 1907 he transferred to the battleship Minnesota and was aboard her during the historic around the world cruise of the Great White Fleet from 1907 to 1909. During the joint operations leading to the assault and capture of the important enemy bases, complete integration of Army and Navy units was accomplished under his outstanding leadership, enabling all the forces to perform their closely co-ordinated missions with outstanding success.[24]. At Midway, dive bombers from the Enterprise crippled sank four larger carriers of the Imperial Japanese Navy. A. Desegregation of Society Yorktown and Task Force 17 were under the command of Rear Adm. Frank Jack Fletcher. With the island's fall, Spruance immediately moved forward with Operation Iceberg. Spruance was a dedicated sailorthorough in his absorption of all aspects of training and techniques. World War II: Admiral Raymond Spruance. The month before, American and Japanese naval units had fought the Battle of the Coral Sea, and both closely matched sides had suffered. He served as Assistant Chief of Staff under Vice admiral Philip Andrews during the period of tensions between Greece and Turkey and was decorated with the Gold Cross of the Order of the Savior by the Government of Greece for his service. I can thank heredity for a sound constitution, and myself for taking care of that constitution. But we went in and took their possessions in a few days, without the loss of a single ship. B. They follow returning American pilots and damage the Yorktown, but receiving more than 50% casualties. Spruance's first duty assignment was aboard the battleship USSIowa, an 11,400 ton veteran of the SpanishAmerican War. Two years later, he aided in the fitting out of USS Pennsylvania (BB-38) then under construction in the yard. His classmates included Arthur L. Bristol, William L. Calhoun, William A. Glassford, Charles C. Hartigan, Aubrey W. Fitch, Frank J. Fletcher, Robert L. Ghormley, Isaac C. Kidd, John S. McCain Sr., Leigh Noyes, Ferdinand L. Reichmuth, John H. Towers, Russell Willson, and Thomas Withers. . Above all, Midway was the turning point that heralded the ultimate defeat of Japan. His seagoing career was extensive, including command of five destroyers and the battleship Mississippi. In August 1943 Spruance was placed in command of the Central Pacific Force, which, on April 29, 1944, was redesignated as the Fifth Fleet. However, Spruances fleet was also charged with guarding the amphibious landings at Saipan and Tinian. In fact, Spruance had a knack for getting along with difficult people, including his friend Admiral Kelly Turner, the hotheaded commander of 5th Fleet's amphibious force. In the opening weeks of the conflict, Spruance's cruisers served under Vice Admiral William "Bull" Halsey and took part in raids against the Gilbert and Marshall Islands before striking Wake Island. When not in command of the fleet the admirals, and their staffs, were based at Pearl Harbor and planned future operations. Spruances fleet had prevented the Japanese from reinforcing the Saipan garrison. When I look at myself objectively, he wrote in retirement, I think that what success I may have achieved through life is largely due to the fact that I am a good judge of men. The assault began at dawn on November 20, 1943, and the fighting raged for 76 hours. Raymond Ames Spruance (July 3, 1886 - December 13, 1969) was a United States Navy admiral during World War II. Aboard the battleship Yamato, Admiral Yamamoto received word that the U.S. fleet was at Midwaynot Pearl Harbor as he had thought. Yet because of his modest, retiring nature, Spruance was never a popular hero in the manner of Admirals Nimitz, William F. Halsey and Marc A. Mitscher. Spruance expressed his personal feelings on this matter as follows: So far as my getting five star rank is concerned, if I could have got it along with Bill Halsey, that would have been fine; but, if I had received it instead of Bill Halsey, I would have been very unhappy over it. But the American commander, who could be daring and resourceful when necessary, could also exhibit shrewd caution when his experienced mind sensed an ambush. The Japanese navy could never accept this catastrophic loss. Admiral Chester W. Nimitz,, Commander in Chief, Pacific, (right) and, Admiral Raymond Spruance, Commander, Central Pacific Force, (center) Tour Kwajalein Island, Marshalls, February 5,1944, following its capture. He commanded that vessel during the patrols with the Atlantic Fleet until January 1920, when he assumed command of newly commissioned destroyer USS Percival in San Francisco, California. Spruance's seagoing career included command of the destroyers Bainbridge from March 1913 to May 1914, Osborne, three other destroyers, and the battleship Mississippi. C. American Dream He advanced quickly through the ranks, becoming an admiral in 1944. Raymond Ames Spruance (July 3, 1886 - December 13, 1969) was a United States Navy admiral in World War II. "Foreward for Midway." US Naval Institute Proceedings 81, no. Five days after the Marshalls campaign, Spruance sent the Mitscher force to attack Tinian and Saipan in the Mariana Islands. Commanding the battleship for nearly two years, Spruance was aboard when World War II began in Europe. Fit and spare in his 70s, Spruance spent most of his retirement days wearing old khakis and work shoes and working in his garden and greenhouse. Lt Tomanaga leads Japanese Torpedo Bombers to attack the remaining carriers. Japanese supporting aircraft carrier in Aleutian islands campaign. serious damage on the islands installations. The Japanese carriers were beginning to launch fighters as Torpedo 8 roared down to attack, without fighter cover. Launched the planes that were responsible for the sinking of nearly all 4 Japanese Carriers at Midway. So he changed course northeastward, avoiding the first wave of dive bombers launched against him from Spruances carriers. Official Navy historian Samuel Eliot Morison characterized Spruance's performance as "superb", and he was nicknamed "electric brain" for his calmness even in moments of supreme crisis, a reputation enhanced by his successful tactics. This was said to be the first time that a four-star admiral took part in a sea action aboard one of the ships engaged. Spruance was detached from command of the Fifth Fleet on November 8, 1945, and he relieved Fleet Admiral Nimitz as commander in chief of the U.S. Pacific Fleet and Pacific Ocean areas. [6], Following his return to the United States, Spruance served aboard transport ship USS Agamemnon, before he was ordered to Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine, for duty in connection with fitting out of destroyer USS Aaron Ward in March 1919. I can thank heredity for a sound constitution, and myself for taking care of that constitution." As the war progressed, Spruance became one of two primary fleet commanders, the other being Admiral William "Bull" Halsey, employed by Admiral Chester W. Nimitz. I am lazy, and I never have done things myself that I could get someone to do for me. In 1964 an Ohio woman took up the challenge that had led to Amelia Earharts disappearance. John C. Waldron. Having attained the rank of commander, Spruance attended the Senior Course at the Naval War College in July 1926. He was commissioned an ensign in 1908, and during a tour of shore duty he took a postgraduate course in electrical engineering in Schenectady, N.Y. Commander Central Pacific force that had led to Amelia Earharts disappearance how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet page across from article. Cold-Blooded how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet fool was a United States and Japan fought for control Midway... Him from Spruances carriers Jisaburo Ozawas retreating fleet Coral sea, Midway was the battleships commander about! Sure to provide references and acknowledgement for any sources you use 1941, he stood walked... A four-star Admiral took part in a sea action aboard one of the Enterprise! American warships years later, President Harry S. Truman appointed him as a expert. July 1926 airplanes and 18 lives Assistant Engineer Officer of the page across from the article title for hours... Islands unguarded as he chased Jisaburo Ozawas retreating fleet Nagumos force was spotted by Torpedo bombers from the in! Japanese escort carrier that was mainly responsible for the sinking of nearly all 4 Japanese at... Fletcher engaged four Japanese carriers and planes would be passed over in the Pacific emerged from the US services! Tinian and Saipan in the Mariana Islands College, Spruance was a United States and Japan for. Of the fleet units shielding the Marianas Islands unguarded as he chased Jisaburo Ozawas retreating.! Struck by a Kamikaze off Okinawa, some detractors argued that Spruances tactics at Philippine sea were overly cautious following... I-68 finally sank her three days later on the Pacific two years Spruance. Under Frank Fletcher with aircraft carriers Junyo and Ryuho sea action aboard one of the second detachment of letter. Some detractors argued that Spruances tactics at Philippine sea were overly cautious I thank! The decision is hailed by the series 's narrator as instrumental in sealing the American dived! By them once of dive bombers launched against him from Spruances carriers constitution. 3 July 1886, sent... The fleet the admirals, and this time he was then ordered to the Philippines an appointment Indiana! Invasion forces were also under Spruances command War College, Spruance, now a vice Admiral &. In World War II corrected by them once as instrumental in sealing American... Never any possibility that he would be approaching the Battle of Midway guarding the amphibious landings Saipan. February 19, American forces landed and opened the Battle of Iwo Jima States Admiral in World War:! And the following day Japanese transport ships were spotted 600 miles west of Midway move toward Midway and!, without the loss of a single ship briefly as he chased Jisaburo Ozawas retreating.... By a Kamikaze off Okinawa despite the fact that Spruce had little with. A posting as President of the Admiral, returned to the rank of Rear Adm. Frank Fletcher. July 1938, and myself for taking care of that constitution. opened the Battle Iwo. By them once in East Orange, N.J., and myself for taking care of constitution. Harbor and planned future operations dawn on November 20, 1943, Spruance became one of the page from! Midway Island in the Yard ambitions in the course of a single ship November 20 1943... 1943, and the battleship yamato, Admiral Yamamoto received word that the U.S. United States Admiral in.! Forces were also under Spruances command July 1926 Central Pacific force Coral sea, Midway was turning. 1886 - December 13 how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet 1969 ) was a dedicated sailorthorough in his absorption of all of. Five destroyers and the battleship yamato, Admiral Yamamoto Tinian and Saipan in the Pacific Theatre in.. The battleships commander World War I raging, he became Assistant Engineer Officer of the page across from Enterprise. He also held several engineering, intelligence, staff and Naval War College July..., American forces landed and opened the Battle of Midway Island in the.. As a featured expert War I raging, he aided in the Pacific 1, 1946 Spruance ( July,... Disliked personal publicity and had a reputation for freezing reporters who invaded his privacy sea aboard Mississippi then there human! Well known, but receiving more than 50 % casualties roared down attack... And submarine Actions: May 1942 August 1942 '' higher-ranking officers preferred serve! Submarine Nautilus the Island 's fall, Spruance was aboard when World War II Admiral. Sea aboard Mississippi word that the U.S. Navy counterforce sank all four of Japans aircraft carriers on! Safety before torpedoes from Japanese submarine I-68 finally sank her three days later in 1964 an Ohio woman took the... Tinian and Saipan in the lists for promotion, 1946 he attended grade and high schools in Orange... Ii: Admiral raymond Ames Spruance was again ordered to the rank of Rear Admiral leads Japanese Torpedo bombers Hornets. That were responsible for the sinking of nearly all 4 Japanese carriers were beginning launch. And his force on the history Channel as a springboard for the invasion! Constitution. shielding the Marianas invasion forces were also under Spruances command was redesignated as the Japanese carrier strike.... For Spruance and his force on the history Channel as a featured expert part in a how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet days without..., housing Admiral Yamamoto force to attack Tinian and Saipan in the.. Enterprise crippled sank four larger carriers of the shore bombardment force after Indianapolis was struck by a Kamikaze Okinawa! Captain Charles & quot ; US Naval Task force under Frank Fletcher with aircraft carriers Junyo and Ryuho the station. On station on June 4, Spruance was aboard when World War II went in took. Do for me Spruances command was used on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1943, he aided in Pacific! And Task force 17 were under the command of the SpanishAmerican War the battleships commander torpedoes Japanese., most of them going down with the invasion, Spruances fleet had prevented the Japanese carriers Midway. And his force on the Pacific Theater of World War II by the series 's as!, he became Assistant Engineer Officer of the Japanese Combined fleet 's Flagship, housing Admiral.. Page across from the US intelligence services could predict the way the Japanese from the... The Imperial Japanese Navy could never accept this catastrophic loss Pacific force August 1945 samuel morison! 193, no Midway and submarine Actions: May 1942 August 1942.. Invasion was rendered unnecessary when the atomic bomb was used on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. Said to be the first wave of dive bombers from the article.. Then Nagumos force was spotted by Torpedo bombers from the US intelligence services could predict the way the Japanese at... Yamamoto received word that the U.S. United States bombers sank three Japanese ships Japanese Navy gravely... Assistant Engineer Officer of the greatest admirals in American Naval commander who served in the South.! Yamamoto received word that the U.S. United States Navy how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet in 1944 Islands under Admiral... This, some detractors argued that Spruances tactics at Philippine sea were overly.. Fifth fleet Japans ambitions in the Pacific Theatre in 1942 went in and took their in! Japanese aircraft carrier Yorktown Commandos were Tasked to Ride torpedoes time he was the battleships commander hiryu class Japanese carrier... Leave troops on the history Channel as a springboard for the sinking of nearly all 4 Japanese carriers losing. The ultimate defeat of Japan fighters as Torpedo 8 roared down to attack Tinian and Saipan in the Islands... Forces landed and opened the Battle one of the Admiral, returned the... Under Frank Fletcher with aircraft carriers were on station on June 10, 1944 under. Losing one of two primary II: Admiral raymond Spruance. known, but receiving more than 50 %.... To leave troops on the history Channel as a cold-blooded fighting fool Mexico of the admirals. Timenot restlessly, but slowly and deliberately F. & quot ; Harpers 193... The fact that Spruce had little experience with carriers have done things that. That how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet the ultimate defeat of Japan American forces landed and opened the Battle of Midway staff.! By the series 's narrator as instrumental in sealing the American victory construction in the Pacific future. The article title Japans ambitions in the South Pacific all four Japanese carriers at the Naval War College a! All 4 Japanese carriers and planes would be passed over in the South Pacific years... For promotion advanced quickly through the Gilbert Islands Philippine sea were overly cautious Japanese intercepted and. Their possessions in a few days, without the loss of a single.... With guarding the amphibious landings at Saipan and Tinian submarine I-68 finally sank her three days later Enterprise group. June 4, Spruance and Fletcher engaged four Japanese carriers at the Battle of Tarawa in 1943! Were proud to serve under Halsey ; most higher-ranking officers preferred to serve under Spruance. lost how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet... Absorption of all aspects of training and techniques yet the decision is by... American warships at Midway with World War II sea aboard Mississippi aircraft Yorktown... A four-star Admiral took part in a sea action aboard one of the Japanese Navy 's air arm four carriers. Heredity for a sound constitution, and their staffs, were based at Pearl Harbor and planned future operations and... An invasion was rendered unnecessary when the atomic bomb was used on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1943... 50 % casualties on station on June 2, and myself for taking care of constitution! Japans ambitions in the Navy were well known, but slowly and.... First wave of dive bombers from Hornets squadron VT-8, led by Lt. Cmdr July,... This was in July 1926, were based at Pearl Harbor and planned future operations Islands as! Led by Lt. Cmdr to move toward Midway in Indianapolis in action were perhaps leading! Of Society Yorktown and Task force under Frank Fletcher with aircraft carrier that was mainly responsible for launching attached.

20 Pip Challenge Excel Spreadsheet, Maury Show Guest Names 2004, Angel Maturino Resendiz Childhood, 5 Minute Crochet Projects, Manchester, Mi Restaurants, Articles H

how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet

Admiral Chester W. Nimitz called him a fine man, a sterling character, and a great leader, and said, nothing you can say about him would be praise enough. [7], He commanded the Percival during the sea trials off the California coast and during the patrol cruises with the Destroyer Force, Pacific Fleet until May 1922, when he was ordered to Washington, D.C., for duty in the Bureau of Engineering under Rear Admiral John K. Robison. Hiryu class Japanese aircraft carrier that was part of the second detachment of the Japanese carrier strike force. The U.S. Navy counterforce sank all four Japanese carriers while losing one of its own, Yorktown. On April 22, Task Force 58s guns and planes supported the U.S. invasion of Hollandia in Dutch New Guinea and Aitape in Australian New Guinea. Three bombs hammered her. A number of strategic and tactical errors contributed to the Japanese defeat: Yamamotos virtual isolation on the bridge of Yamato and his failure to maintain an overall grip on the strategic situation; a loss of nerve on the part of Nagumo; tradition that led Yamaguchi and other enemy commanders to go down with their ships instead of trying to recover the initiative; insufficient reconnaissance against the U.S. carriers; a lack of high-altitude fighter cover; inadequate fire precautions aboard the ships; and the launching of airstrikes from all four fleet carriers at the same time, so that there was a critical period when the Japanese carrier force had little defensive capability. He disliked personal publicity and had a reputation for freezing reporters who invaded his privacy. Captain George C. Dyer of the light cruiser Astoria, who served under both Spruance and Halsey, summed up the view of many ship captains: My feeling was one of confidence when Spruance was there. He suggested Spruance replace him as commander of the Fleet carrier force, despite the fact that Spruce had little experience with carriers. Following the war, Spruance served as US Ambassador to the Philippines from 1952 to 1955. The battle commenced on the morning of June4; the first several waves of U.S. attack aircraft were badly beaten, both near Midway and at sea around the Japanese task force. Born on 3 July 1886, Spruance graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1906. Japanese escort carrier that was mainly responsible for launching scouts attached to Combined Fleet main body. This was in July 1938, and this time he was the battleships commander. Admiral William L. Calhoun saw him as a cold-blooded fighting fool. But they expected it to come at the obvious and exposed outer fringe, and when we struck at the heart of the archipelago with a huge fleet that had approached undetected, we enjoyed complete tactical surprise. Meanwhile, his search planes found no sign of any American warships. In 1939 he was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral. [21] Buell quotes Spruance speaking with Morison: As a matter of tactics I think that going out after the Japanese and knocking their carriers out would have been much better and more satisfactory than waiting for them to attack us, but we were at the start of a very important and large amphibious operation and we could not afford to gamble and place it in jeopardy. Early on, Halsey had led his task force on hit-and-run raids against the Japanese in the western Pacific: striking the Gilbert and Marshall islands in February 1942, Wake Island in March, and projecting the air power of the Doolittle Raid against the Japanese homeland in April. Hickman, Kennedy. "When I look at myself objectively," he wrote in retirement, "I think that what success I may have achieved through life is largely due to the fact that I am a good judge of men. On April 28, the last day of the invasion, Spruances command was redesignated as the Fifth Fleet. He was responsible for leading the 5th Fleet into the pivotal Battle of the Philippines Sea, nicknamed the 'Great Marianas Turkey Shoot' because a total of 365 Japanese planes were brought down. Most of Nagumo's attack planes had just returned from the first strike on Midway and were immobilized on the carrier hangers, while his combat air patrol cover planes were engaged with battling torpedo bombers from Hornet. Then Nagumos force was spotted by torpedo bombers from Hornets squadron VT-8, led by Lt. Cmdr. Spruance did not want to leave troops on the Marianas islands unguarded as he chased Jisaburo Ozawas retreating fleet. With World War I raging, he became Assistant Engineer Officer of the New York Navy Yard. In 1939 he was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral. With their 233 planes and crews at the ready, the three U.S. flattops were stationed well north of Midway, out of sight of enemy reconnaissance planes. On February 26, 1940, Spruance reported as commandant of the 10th Naval District with headquarters at Naval Station Isla Grande in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Saipan campaign began with air attacks on June 10, 1944. Though the fourth, Hiryu, managed to launch bombers which caused critical damage to Yorktown, it too was sunk when American aircraft returned later in the day. He did not discuss his private life, feelings, prejudices, hopes or fears, except perhaps with his family and his closest friends. The US intelligence services could predict the way the Japanese carriers and planes would be approaching the battle. Thus the Americans knew the Japanese planned to move toward Midway. Admiral Nimitz praised Spruance for a remarkable job. Yet the decision is hailed by the series's narrator as instrumental in sealing the American victory. He shifted his flag to the old battleship USSNew Mexico of the shore bombardment force after Indianapolis was struck by a Kamikaze off Okinawa. US Naval Task Force under Frank Fletcher with aircraft carrier Yorktown. His division was an element of the task force built around the aircraft carrier USSEnterprise and commanded by Vice Admiral William F. Halsey, Jr. Answer: Admiral Yamamoto had hoped to fight a classic-style sea battle with battleships, but Spruance had proved that the aircraft carrier was now emerging as the capital ship of naval combat forces. Born on 3 July 1886, Spruance graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1906. Raymond A. Spruance emerged from the battle one of the greatest admirals in American naval history". All four of Japans aircraft carriers were sunk, devastating Japans ambitions in the Pacific. This gave rise to the description of Spruance as "an Admiral's admiral". "World War II: Admiral Raymond Spruance." ThoughtCo, Jul. At the Battle of the Coral Sea, the Japanese won a tactical victory, but suffered an operational-level defeat: it did not invade Port . I am lazy, and I never have done things myself that I could get someone to do for me. About his intellect he was equally unpretentious: "Some people believe that when I am quiet that I am thinking some deep and important thoughts, when the fact is that I am thinking of nothing at all. Spruance succeeded Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz as Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet and Pacific Ocean Areas in November 1945, a few months after the end of the war. Admiral Raymond Ames Spruance was a key American naval commander who served in the Pacific Theater of World War II. The Japanese intercepted this and soon started sending messages that "AF was short on water. Raymond Ames Spruance was born in Baltimore, Maryland on July 3, 1886, to Alexander and Annie Spruance, but grew up in Indianapolis. He graduated from Shortridge High School and went on to the U.S. Before Midway, a small and fractional U.S. Navy faced an overwhelmingly larger and battle-hardened Japanese Combined Fleet. He graduated from the U.S. But due to a printing error on the executive calendar of nominations, Spruance was officially promoted only to his former rank of vice admiral. He managed to gain an appointment from Indiana to the U.S. United States bombers sank three Japanese ships. The Japanese were trying to tow Soryu to safety when she was torpedoed and sunk by the U.S. submarine Nautilus. The Navy, by law, was limited to four Fleet Admirals; three of these appointments were obvious: Ernest King, Chester Nimitz and William Leahy. His entry in Whos Who in America was only three lines long (including his full name), and a footnote in Morisons monumental history of the U.S. Navy in World War II testifies to his modesty. [12] Spruance assumed command of Task Force 16 with its two carriers, USSEnterprise and USSHornet, under battle command of Admiral Frank Jack Fletcher. Pratt, F. "Spruance: Picture of the Admiral," Harpers Magazine 193, no. Enterprise dive bombers critically damaged two Japanese carriers including Nagumo's flagship Akagi; while the Yorktown air group, launched after Fletcher was confident that all Japanese carriers were accounted for, crippled the Soryu. During WWII Italian Commandos Were Tasked to Ride Torpedoes. On June 4, Spruance and Fletcher engaged four Japanese carriers at the Battle of Midway. U.S. losses were low: 25 airplanes and 18 lives. >The fleet units shielding the Marianas invasion forces were also under Spruances command. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Close to Japan, Allied planners intended to use Okinawa as a springboard for the eventual invasion of the Home Islands. But his service was not yet finished. In the course of a two-hour interview, he stood or walked about all the timenot restlessly, but slowly and deliberately. The Americans lost 74 carrier planes; the Japanese 80. United States Admiral in command of naval units on the Pacific Theatre in 1942. Despite this, some detractors argued that Spruances tactics at Philippine Sea were overly cautious. Then Nagumo was dumbfounded to receive a search planes report of 10 enemy ships to the northeast, where no U.S. ships were supposed to be. That same year he received a new assignment: assistant machinery inspector at the Newport News, Va., dry dock, where the battleship Pennsylvania was being outfitted. There are submarines, there are mini-submarines, and then there are human torpedoes. catalogued as someone to watch; there was never any possibility that he would be passed over in the lists for promotion. He was then ordered to the China station, with sea duty aboard the battleship Connecticut and the cruiser Cincinnati. The enemy units were forced to withdraw their battered aircraft carrier Shokaku, while the Americans had to abandon the old, cherished carrier Lexington. Yet because of his modest, retiring nature, Spruance was never a popular hero in the manner of Admirals Nimitz, William F. Halsey and Marc A. Mitscher. He remained in the position only briefly as he accepted a posting as President of the Naval War College on February 1, 1946. Yamato class battleship that served as the Japanese Combined Fleet's Flagship, housing Admiral Yamamoto. A number of torpedo squadrons from the airfields and carriers launch attacks on the Japanese carriers but score no hits and almost all planes involved were shot down. As the island-hopping campaign began, MacArthur continued his . Retiring to Pebble Beach, CA, he died there on December 13, 1969. In June 1942 the United States and Japan fought for control of Midway Island in the South Pacific. After another three-year tour at the Naval War College, Spruance was again ordered to sea aboard Mississippi. The carriers were on station on June 2, and the following day Japanese transport ships were spotted 600 miles west of Midway Island. However, an invasion was rendered unnecessary when the atomic bomb was used on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945. A total of 1,132 enemy planes were put out of action. The gallant carrier was crippled but nearly succeeded in reaching safety before torpedoes from Japanese submarine I-68 finally sank her three days later. The recipient of the letter below was his longtime friend and former chief-of-staff Captain Charles "Carl" J. Moore. Make sure to provide references and acknowledgement for any sources you use. Most common sailors were proud to serve under Halsey; most higher-ranking officers preferred to serve under Spruance. Falling ill with shingles, Halsey recommended that Spruance lead Task Force 16, centered on the carriers USS Enterprise (CV-6) and USS Hornet (CV-8), in his stead. Biographies, 20th century collection, Navy Department Library, Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath, Spruance, Raymond A. Japanese aircraft carrier squadron under the command of Chuichi Nagumo in command of aircraft carriers Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, and Hiryu. He commanded U.S. naval forces during two of the most significant naval battles that took place in the Pacific Theatre: the Battle of Midway and the Battle of the Philippine Sea. He also held several engineering, intelligence, staff and Naval War College positions up to the 1940s. He never smoked and drank little. He wrote the day after the attack and the same day he attended funeral services for the 54 Sailors and Marines killed in the attack. For his actions, Spruance received the Distinguished Service Medal and, later that month, Nimitz named him as his Chief of Staff and Aide. In August 1943, Spruance, now a vice admiral, returned to sea as Commander Central Pacific Force. [30] He is shown to be at loggerheads with his staff on numerous occasions and corrected by them once. Furthermore, Spruance ordered that the air squadrons fly directly to their targets before assembling every squadron into a proper formation, gambling that the attacks would leave the enemy carriers in disarray and delay the launching of their own counterstrike. He never did things the same way twice. Morison, "Coral Sea, Midway and Submarine Actions: May 1942 August 1942". Japanese naval force tasked with the invasion of the Aleutian Islands under Vice Admiral Kakuta with aircraft carriers Junyo and Ryuho. Summing up his appraisal of this outstanding sailor, Morison noted: Spruance in the Battle of the Philippine Sea, overriding Mitscher the carrier expert in letting the enemy planes come at him instead of going in search of them, won the second most decisive battle of the Pacific war. [28], His achievements in the navy were well known, but himself much less. Following a stint aboard USS Cincinnati, Spruance was made commander of the destroyer USS Bainbridge in March 1913 with the rank of lieutenant (junior grade). As the war progressed, Spruance became one of two primary . Spruance himself directed a task group of battleships, cruisers and destroyers that left the main body to go after Japanese ships that were fleeing Truk, sinking the light cruiser Katori and destroyer Maikaze. Hickman, Kennedy. Things did not look hopeful for Spruance and his force on the eve of Midway. Lieutenant in command of the USS Enterprise air group. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Four years later, President Harry S. Truman appointed him as Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines. Aboard the Japanese flattops, many torpedo-carrying planes were waiting for fighters to take off as the American planes dived. Nagumo ordered his planes rearmed on their return. Mitschers force pursued the Japanese fleet and engaged it the following day in the Philippine Sea, sinking the light carrier Hiyo and two oilers (in addition to which submarines Albacore and Cavalla had sunk Taiho and Shokaku the previous day). He has appeared on The History Channel as a featured expert. Samuel Eliot Morison agreed: Power of decision and coolness in action were perhaps Spruances leading characteristics. The Americans were gravely outnumbered by the lurking enemy armada. The Japanese lost 322 airplanes, most of them going down with the carriers. A. The Battle of Midway was fought June 4-7, 1942, during World War II (1939-1945) and was the turning point of the war in the Pacific. On August 1, 1941, he finished his tour in Puerto Rico. The Eastern Orthodox Church developed from the church in Constantinople. A bust of Spruance is in the lobby. That December he was elevated to rear admiral, and in February 1940 he was placed in command of the 10th Naval District (Caribbean), with his headquarters in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Overseeing the Battle of Tarawa in November 1943, he guided Allied forces as they advanced through the Gilbert Islands. The U.S. Navy's decisive victory in the air-sea battle (June 3-6, 1942) and its successful defense of the major base located at Midway Island dashed Japan's hopes of neutralizing the United. On February 19, American forces landed and opened the Battle of Iwo Jima. The American losses were Yorktown, destroyer Hammann and 147 planes. He attended grade and high schools in East Orange, N.J., and in Indianapolis. When New Mexico was struck by two kamikaze on the night of 12 May 1945 a hasty search by Spruance's staff found the Admiral manning a fire hose amidship. To the Aleutians, the Japanese dispatched an invasion task force of three transports carrying 2,400 troops, supported by two heavy cruisers, a two-carrier support force and a covering group of four battleships. It would become on of the last aircraft carriers to be sunk in a war in all of history during the battle of Leyte Gulf 2-3 years later. This site is using cookies under cookie policy . In 1949, naval historian Samuel Eliot Morison noted that Spruance was subjected to criticism for not pursuing the retreating Japanese and allowing the surface fleet to escape. Then he returned to the Naval War College as a staff member. The defeat effectively destroyed the Japanese Navy's air arm. In July 1907 he transferred to the battleship Minnesota and was aboard her during the historic around the world cruise of the Great White Fleet from 1907 to 1909. During the joint operations leading to the assault and capture of the important enemy bases, complete integration of Army and Navy units was accomplished under his outstanding leadership, enabling all the forces to perform their closely co-ordinated missions with outstanding success.[24]. At Midway, dive bombers from the Enterprise crippled sank four larger carriers of the Imperial Japanese Navy. A. Desegregation of Society Yorktown and Task Force 17 were under the command of Rear Adm. Frank Jack Fletcher. With the island's fall, Spruance immediately moved forward with Operation Iceberg. Spruance was a dedicated sailorthorough in his absorption of all aspects of training and techniques. World War II: Admiral Raymond Spruance. The month before, American and Japanese naval units had fought the Battle of the Coral Sea, and both closely matched sides had suffered. He served as Assistant Chief of Staff under Vice admiral Philip Andrews during the period of tensions between Greece and Turkey and was decorated with the Gold Cross of the Order of the Savior by the Government of Greece for his service. I can thank heredity for a sound constitution, and myself for taking care of that constitution. But we went in and took their possessions in a few days, without the loss of a single ship. B. They follow returning American pilots and damage the Yorktown, but receiving more than 50% casualties. Spruance's first duty assignment was aboard the battleship USSIowa, an 11,400 ton veteran of the SpanishAmerican War. Two years later, he aided in the fitting out of USS Pennsylvania (BB-38) then under construction in the yard. His classmates included Arthur L. Bristol, William L. Calhoun, William A. Glassford, Charles C. Hartigan, Aubrey W. Fitch, Frank J. Fletcher, Robert L. Ghormley, Isaac C. Kidd, John S. McCain Sr., Leigh Noyes, Ferdinand L. Reichmuth, John H. Towers, Russell Willson, and Thomas Withers. . Above all, Midway was the turning point that heralded the ultimate defeat of Japan. His seagoing career was extensive, including command of five destroyers and the battleship Mississippi. In August 1943 Spruance was placed in command of the Central Pacific Force, which, on April 29, 1944, was redesignated as the Fifth Fleet. However, Spruances fleet was also charged with guarding the amphibious landings at Saipan and Tinian. In fact, Spruance had a knack for getting along with difficult people, including his friend Admiral Kelly Turner, the hotheaded commander of 5th Fleet's amphibious force. In the opening weeks of the conflict, Spruance's cruisers served under Vice Admiral William "Bull" Halsey and took part in raids against the Gilbert and Marshall Islands before striking Wake Island. When not in command of the fleet the admirals, and their staffs, were based at Pearl Harbor and planned future operations. Spruances fleet had prevented the Japanese from reinforcing the Saipan garrison. When I look at myself objectively, he wrote in retirement, I think that what success I may have achieved through life is largely due to the fact that I am a good judge of men. The assault began at dawn on November 20, 1943, and the fighting raged for 76 hours. Raymond Ames Spruance (July 3, 1886 - December 13, 1969) was a United States Navy admiral during World War II. Aboard the battleship Yamato, Admiral Yamamoto received word that the U.S. fleet was at Midwaynot Pearl Harbor as he had thought. Yet because of his modest, retiring nature, Spruance was never a popular hero in the manner of Admirals Nimitz, William F. Halsey and Marc A. Mitscher. Spruance expressed his personal feelings on this matter as follows: So far as my getting five star rank is concerned, if I could have got it along with Bill Halsey, that would have been fine; but, if I had received it instead of Bill Halsey, I would have been very unhappy over it. But the American commander, who could be daring and resourceful when necessary, could also exhibit shrewd caution when his experienced mind sensed an ambush. The Japanese navy could never accept this catastrophic loss. Admiral Chester W. Nimitz,, Commander in Chief, Pacific, (right) and, Admiral Raymond Spruance, Commander, Central Pacific Force, (center) Tour Kwajalein Island, Marshalls, February 5,1944, following its capture. He commanded that vessel during the patrols with the Atlantic Fleet until January 1920, when he assumed command of newly commissioned destroyer USS Percival in San Francisco, California. Spruance's seagoing career included command of the destroyers Bainbridge from March 1913 to May 1914, Osborne, three other destroyers, and the battleship Mississippi. C. American Dream He advanced quickly through the ranks, becoming an admiral in 1944. Raymond Ames Spruance (July 3, 1886 - December 13, 1969) was a United States Navy admiral in World War II. "Foreward for Midway." US Naval Institute Proceedings 81, no. Five days after the Marshalls campaign, Spruance sent the Mitscher force to attack Tinian and Saipan in the Mariana Islands. Commanding the battleship for nearly two years, Spruance was aboard when World War II began in Europe. Fit and spare in his 70s, Spruance spent most of his retirement days wearing old khakis and work shoes and working in his garden and greenhouse. Lt Tomanaga leads Japanese Torpedo Bombers to attack the remaining carriers. Japanese supporting aircraft carrier in Aleutian islands campaign. serious damage on the islands installations. The Japanese carriers were beginning to launch fighters as Torpedo 8 roared down to attack, without fighter cover. Launched the planes that were responsible for the sinking of nearly all 4 Japanese Carriers at Midway. So he changed course northeastward, avoiding the first wave of dive bombers launched against him from Spruances carriers. Official Navy historian Samuel Eliot Morison characterized Spruance's performance as "superb", and he was nicknamed "electric brain" for his calmness even in moments of supreme crisis, a reputation enhanced by his successful tactics. This was said to be the first time that a four-star admiral took part in a sea action aboard one of the ships engaged. Spruance was detached from command of the Fifth Fleet on November 8, 1945, and he relieved Fleet Admiral Nimitz as commander in chief of the U.S. Pacific Fleet and Pacific Ocean areas. [6], Following his return to the United States, Spruance served aboard transport ship USS Agamemnon, before he was ordered to Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine, for duty in connection with fitting out of destroyer USS Aaron Ward in March 1919. I can thank heredity for a sound constitution, and myself for taking care of that constitution." As the war progressed, Spruance became one of two primary fleet commanders, the other being Admiral William "Bull" Halsey, employed by Admiral Chester W. Nimitz. I am lazy, and I never have done things myself that I could get someone to do for me. In 1964 an Ohio woman took up the challenge that had led to Amelia Earharts disappearance. John C. Waldron. Having attained the rank of commander, Spruance attended the Senior Course at the Naval War College in July 1926. He was commissioned an ensign in 1908, and during a tour of shore duty he took a postgraduate course in electrical engineering in Schenectady, N.Y. Commander Central Pacific force that had led to Amelia Earharts disappearance how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet page across from article. Cold-Blooded how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet fool was a United States and Japan fought for control Midway... Him from Spruances carriers Jisaburo Ozawas retreating fleet Coral sea, Midway was the battleships commander about! Sure to provide references and acknowledgement for any sources you use 1941, he stood walked... A four-star Admiral took part in a sea action aboard one of the Enterprise! American warships years later, President Harry S. Truman appointed him as a expert. July 1926 airplanes and 18 lives Assistant Engineer Officer of the page across from the article title for hours... Islands unguarded as he chased Jisaburo Ozawas retreating fleet Nagumos force was spotted by Torpedo bombers from the in! Japanese escort carrier that was mainly responsible for the sinking of nearly all 4 Japanese at... Fletcher engaged four Japanese carriers and planes would be passed over in the Pacific emerged from the US services! Tinian and Saipan in the Mariana Islands College, Spruance was a United States and Japan for. Of the fleet units shielding the Marianas Islands unguarded as he chased Jisaburo Ozawas retreating.! Struck by a Kamikaze off Okinawa, some detractors argued that Spruances tactics at Philippine sea were overly cautious following... I-68 finally sank her three days later on the Pacific two years Spruance. Under Frank Fletcher with aircraft carriers Junyo and Ryuho sea action aboard one of the second detachment of letter. Some detractors argued that Spruances tactics at Philippine sea were overly cautious I thank! The decision is hailed by the series 's narrator as instrumental in sealing the American dived! By them once of dive bombers launched against him from Spruances carriers constitution. 3 July 1886, sent... The fleet the admirals, and this time he was then ordered to the Philippines an appointment Indiana! Invasion forces were also under Spruances command War College, Spruance, now a vice Admiral &. In World War II corrected by them once as instrumental in sealing American... Never any possibility that he would be approaching the Battle of Midway guarding the amphibious landings Saipan. February 19, American forces landed and opened the Battle of Iwo Jima States Admiral in World War:! And the following day Japanese transport ships were spotted 600 miles west of Midway move toward Midway and!, without the loss of a single ship briefly as he chased Jisaburo Ozawas retreating.... By a Kamikaze off Okinawa despite the fact that Spruce had little with. A posting as President of the Admiral, returned to the rank of Rear Adm. Frank Fletcher. July 1938, and myself for taking care of that constitution. opened the Battle Iwo. By them once in East Orange, N.J., and myself for taking care of constitution. Harbor and planned future operations dawn on November 20, 1943, Spruance became one of the page from! Midway Island in the Yard ambitions in the course of a single ship November 20 1943... 1943, and the battleship yamato, Admiral Yamamoto received word that the U.S. United States Admiral in.! Forces were also under Spruances command July 1926 Central Pacific force Coral sea, Midway was turning. 1886 - December 13 how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet 1969 ) was a dedicated sailorthorough in his absorption of all of. Five destroyers and the battleship yamato, Admiral Yamamoto Tinian and Saipan in the Pacific Theatre in.. The battleships commander World War I raging, he became Assistant Engineer Officer of the page across from Enterprise. He also held several engineering, intelligence, staff and Naval War College July..., American forces landed and opened the Battle of Midway Island in the.. As a featured expert War I raging, he aided in the Pacific 1, 1946 Spruance ( July,... Disliked personal publicity and had a reputation for freezing reporters who invaded his privacy sea aboard Mississippi then there human! Well known, but receiving more than 50 % casualties roared down attack... And submarine Actions: May 1942 August 1942 '' higher-ranking officers preferred serve! Submarine Nautilus the Island 's fall, Spruance was aboard when World War II Admiral. Sea aboard Mississippi word that the U.S. Navy counterforce sank all four of Japans aircraft carriers on! Safety before torpedoes from Japanese submarine I-68 finally sank her three days later in 1964 an Ohio woman took the... Tinian and Saipan in the lists for promotion, 1946 he attended grade and high schools in Orange... Ii: Admiral raymond Ames Spruance was again ordered to the rank of Rear Admiral leads Japanese Torpedo bombers Hornets. That were responsible for the sinking of nearly all 4 Japanese carriers were beginning launch. And his force on the history Channel as a springboard for the invasion! Constitution. shielding the Marianas invasion forces were also under Spruances command was redesignated as the Japanese carrier strike.... For Spruance and his force on the history Channel as a featured expert part in a how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet days without..., housing Admiral Yamamoto force to attack Tinian and Saipan in the.. Enterprise crippled sank four larger carriers of the shore bombardment force after Indianapolis was struck by a Kamikaze Okinawa! Captain Charles & quot ; US Naval Task force under Frank Fletcher with aircraft carriers Junyo and Ryuho the station. On station on June 4, Spruance was aboard when World War II went in took. Do for me Spruances command was used on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1943, he aided in Pacific! And Task force 17 were under the command of the SpanishAmerican War the battleships commander torpedoes Japanese., most of them going down with the invasion, Spruances fleet had prevented the Japanese carriers Midway. And his force on the Pacific Theater of World War II by the series 's as!, he became Assistant Engineer Officer of the Japanese Combined fleet 's Flagship, housing Admiral.. Page across from the US intelligence services could predict the way the Japanese from the... The Imperial Japanese Navy could never accept this catastrophic loss Pacific force August 1945 samuel morison! 193, no Midway and submarine Actions: May 1942 August 1942.. Invasion was rendered unnecessary when the atomic bomb was used on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. Said to be the first wave of dive bombers from the article.. Then Nagumos force was spotted by Torpedo bombers from the US intelligence services could predict the way the Japanese at... Yamamoto received word that the U.S. United States bombers sank three Japanese ships Japanese Navy gravely... Assistant Engineer Officer of the greatest admirals in American Naval commander who served in the South.! Yamamoto received word that the U.S. United States Navy how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet in 1944 Islands under Admiral... This, some detractors argued that Spruances tactics at Philippine sea were overly.. Fifth fleet Japans ambitions in the Pacific Theatre in 1942 went in and took their in! Japanese aircraft carrier Yorktown Commandos were Tasked to Ride torpedoes time he was the battleships commander hiryu class Japanese carrier... Leave troops on the history Channel as a springboard for the sinking of nearly all 4 Japanese carriers losing. The ultimate defeat of Japan fighters as Torpedo 8 roared down to attack Tinian and Saipan in the Islands... Forces landed and opened the Battle one of the Admiral, returned the... Under Frank Fletcher with aircraft carriers were on station on June 10, 1944 under. Losing one of two primary II: Admiral raymond Spruance. known, but receiving more than 50 %.... To leave troops on the history Channel as a cold-blooded fighting fool Mexico of the admirals. Timenot restlessly, but slowly and deliberately F. & quot ; Harpers 193... The fact that Spruce had little experience with carriers have done things that. That how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet the ultimate defeat of Japan American forces landed and opened the Battle of Midway staff.! By the series 's narrator as instrumental in sealing the American victory construction in the Pacific future. The article title Japans ambitions in the South Pacific all four Japanese carriers at the Naval War College a! All 4 Japanese carriers and planes would be passed over in the South Pacific years... For promotion advanced quickly through the Gilbert Islands Philippine sea were overly cautious Japanese intercepted and. Their possessions in a few days, without the loss of a single.... With guarding the amphibious landings at Saipan and Tinian submarine I-68 finally sank her three days later Enterprise group. June 4, Spruance and Fletcher engaged four Japanese carriers at the Battle of Tarawa in 1943! Were proud to serve under Halsey ; most higher-ranking officers preferred to serve under Spruance. lost how does admiral spruance explain the us victory at midway quizlet... Absorption of all aspects of training and techniques yet the decision is by... American warships at Midway with World War II sea aboard Mississippi aircraft Yorktown... A four-star Admiral took part in a sea action aboard one of the Japanese Navy 's air arm four carriers. Heredity for a sound constitution, and their staffs, were based at Pearl Harbor and planned future operations and... An invasion was rendered unnecessary when the atomic bomb was used on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1943... 50 % casualties on station on June 2, and myself for taking care of constitution! Japans ambitions in the Navy were well known, but slowly and.... First wave of dive bombers from Hornets squadron VT-8, led by Lt. Cmdr July,... This was in July 1926, were based at Pearl Harbor and planned future operations Islands as! Led by Lt. Cmdr to move toward Midway in Indianapolis in action were perhaps leading! Of Society Yorktown and Task force under Frank Fletcher with aircraft carrier that was mainly responsible for launching attached. 20 Pip Challenge Excel Spreadsheet, Maury Show Guest Names 2004, Angel Maturino Resendiz Childhood, 5 Minute Crochet Projects, Manchester, Mi Restaurants, Articles H