Milton Wayne was the son of John Barnes Clark and Ada M. Wells who married in Waurika, Jefferson, OK on 07 Sept 1913. Milton, or Wayne as he was known, was the brother of three sisters; Florene, Mattie Moditha, and Leona Elizabeth Clark. John and Ada divorced in the early 1940s. She later married William Elbert Humber as her second husband.
Mattie, Wayne (as he was known in high school) and Leona attended Plainview High School, Plainview, TX during the 1930s. Wayne was a football letter-man in 1937 and played the position of Center. In addition to football, Wayne was also a participant in Hi-y Club, Public Speaking, and the Tennis Club. He graduated in May 1939 from Plainview High School.
He applied for Navy enlistment in the early Summer. The enlistment process required that he provide an application, birth certificate, permission from his parents to enlist, three personal references, a police record check, sit for aptitude tests, and take a physical exam. After he completed that process, he was accepted for enlistment. He enlisted in the US Navy (NSN:356-23-36) for four years in September 1939 shortly after he finished high school. He transferred to the Naval Training Station, San Diego for recruit training as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S). In early January 1940, Clark was transferred to the Aviation Machinist's Mates "Class A" Service School. During his tenure at the Class "A" school he advanced in rate to Seaman Second Class (S2c). After he finished the school S2c transferred to the USS Enterprise (CV-6) and Scouting Squadron Six (VS-6). In late 1940, he was advanced to Seaman First Class (S1c) then to Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class (AMM3) in 1941. In February 1942 he was advanced in rate to Aviation Machinist's Mate Second Class (AMM2).
The Enterprise, "Big E" as she was called, was commissioned on 12 May 1938. During 1939, Enterprise and her embarked squadrons conducted shake down cruises and workup exercises at various times. While the ship was inport the squadrons were temporarily based ashore at their assigned airfields. In Sep 1939, Enterprise became part of the Hawaiian Detachment of the U.S. Fleet whose homeport was Pearl Harbor. In Jan 1940 Enterprise was engaged in exercises in Hawaiian waters. In early Feb, she steamed for Puget Sound Navy Shipyard for an overhaul after making a brief port call in San Diego. In late May, Enterprise, her overhaul completed, returned to San Diego for about a month. She returned to Pearl Harbor on 2 July 1940. Enterprise conducted exercises from August to early Nov in the Hawaiian area. Then on 09 Nov she steamed to San Diego until 2 Dec when she got underway for the Puget Sound Navy Shipyard in Bremerton, WA.
Enterprise returned to Pearl Harbor on 21 Jan 1941. During 1941 Enterprise made 13 round trips between Hawaii and San Diego from April - Nov conducting exercise cycles and squadron work-ups. During those months she also shuttled Army Air Force P-39s and P-40s, as well as, Navy aircraft from US West Coast ports to Pearl Harbor and beyond. On 28 Nov 1941, Enterprise, now operating in a war-time steaming condition, left San Diego with a cargo of Marine Fighting Squadron 211 (VMF-211) aircraft and pilots destined for Wake Island. The Marine pilots and their planes flew from Enterprise to Wake Island on 02 Dec 1941. Enterprise was scheduled to arrive back in Pearl Harbor on 06 Dec, but was delayed due to inclement weather.
In the early pre-dawn hours of 07 Dec 1941, Enterprise was 200 miles west of Oahu heading for a late afternoon docking at Pearl Harbor. Admiral Halsey planned to send 18 SBD dive bombers to search 150 miles ahead of the task force as a normal precaution. Instead of returning to Enterprise, the search flight was to continue directly to Pearl Harbor. The rest of the air group would follow that afternoon before she entered port. Leading the mission was Lcdr Howard L. Young, Commander Enterprise Air Group in his own SBD, Thirteen dive bombers from Lcdr Halstead L. Hopping's Scouting Six and four from Lcdr William R. Hollingsworth's Bombing Six. Launching began at 0618. Operating under strict radio silence, Halsey had not alert Pearl Harbor that his dive bombers were coming. He assumed his aircraft would not have any trouble identifying themselves, and ordinarily they wouldn't.
However, at 0755, 183 Japanese fighters, bombers and torpedo planes swarmed over the unsuspecting US Pacific Fleet. When the dive bombing group arrived over Pearl Harbor they were attacked by Japanese aircraft and shot at by friendly AA fire. Ensign William (Bill) Price West followed his wing-man - Lt Earl Gallaher to Ewa Field. There, however, the marines told them to take off and return to Ford Island. Along the way, friendly AA fire damaged several SBDs making them among the first Navy aviators to come under fire during the Pacific war. Among the group, seven SBDs were shot down, either from enemy action or friendly fire, Eight airmen were killed and two wounded. AMM3 M.W. Clark did not fly with any of these aircraft.
After the debacle at Pearl Harbor, Enterprise was sent on a belated attempt to relieve Wake Island. The attempt was called off. On 09 January 1942, Admiral Nimitz directed Admiral Halsey to raid the southern Marshall and northern Gilbert area employing air attack and ship bombardment.
On 01 Feb 1942 Ensign Bill Price West launched from the USS Enterprise on a raid of the Marshall Islands in Scout Bomber Dauntless (SBD) 6-S-12 from Scouting Squadron Six (VS-6). His gunner was AMM3 Milton W. Clark. As his attack group reached the island of ROI they began bombing targets. West was jumped by two Japanese Mitsubishi A5M Type 96"Claude" fighters. He maneuvered his plane such that his gunner was able to shoot down one of the "Claude" aircraft. Clark then took the second aircraft under fire. It was seen to roll over apparently out of control. Neither West nor Clark saw it crash however.
Clark was given credit for the first "kill" and a second probable "kill." West circled the island for a second attack when he saw an SBD in trouble. He dove into the fray driving off the enemy aircraft enabling the friendly plane to escape. However, he was met with burst of gunfire from an unseen enemy plane that knocked out his instrument panel and hit him in the shoulder seriously wounding him. He was able to return to Enterprise and land his plane safely. He was transferred from the Enterprise to the hospital ship, USS Solace (AH-5) on 05 Feb 1942 as a patient. His medical care complete, Ens. West was returned from Solace to the Enterprise on 13 Mar 1942.
At 0430 on 24 Feb 1942 flight quarters sounded on board Enterprise. Shortly after 0600 the CAP fighters began launching followed by the attack package bound for a raid against Wake Island. AMM2 Clark flew into action with his new pilot Ens. Robert Keith Campbell, USNR in SBD aircraft 6-S-12 in the second division led by Lt. Reginald Rutherford. The three division section was led by the new CO, Lt Wilmer Earl Gallaher.
For its part, Scouting Six damaged Wake's runway, destroyed four magazines or underground hangers, shot up a patrol craft, and also damaged several small buildings and one coast defense gun. By 0945, the fifty plane strike package of the Enterprise Air Group began to land back on board Enterprise. Scouting six had lost two SBDs in the Wake strike.
As the Enterprise and her escorts withdrew from Wake, Admiral Halsey received and urgent message from Admiral Nimitz (CINCPAC), "Desirable to strike Marcus if you think it feasible." Never one to shy away from a fight, the "Bull" turned his ships westward toward Marcus Island. At 0446 on 4 Mar 1942, Enterprise Air Group began launching its 38 plane strike package against Marcus Island. Led by the Lcdr Brigham Young in his command SBD he was followed by Scouting Six's 14 Scout bombers, then Bombing Six's 17 dive-bombers, then six Wildcat fighters. Ens. R.K. Campbell and AMM2 M.W. Clark flew in the second division of VS-6 in SBD - 6-S-12. The attacks began about 0640. Second division began their dive from 17,000 feet at 0650. AA and small arms fire was intense. VS-6 lost one aircraft. Damage consisted of a gasoline storage tank, radio transmitter and numerous "new" holes in the runways. By 0845, the strike package returned to Enterprise. Enterprise departed the area and steamed toward Pearl Harbor entering on 10 March. Her air group landed on Oahu prior to her entering port.
A little less than a month later, 08 April 1942, Big E steamed out of Pearl Harbor in company with Task Force Sixteen. The air group landed on board not long after Entreprise's departure. On 13 April, Enterprise rendezvoused with the USS Hornet (CV-8) and her Task Force Eighteen. Hornet's mission was to deliver 16 Army bombers, (B-25) and their bombs to targets in and around Tokyo, Japan. Enterprise's air group provided Combat Air Patrol (CAP) protection for the mission. On 18 April Doolittle's raid began with the B-25s launching at 0820. After Hornet finished launching the Army B-25s at 0921, Enterprise and Hornet commenced an easterly withdrawal at 25 knots. She steamed into Pearl Harbor on 25 April.
In early May, Enterprise and Hornet were directed to the South Pacific to assist aircraft carriers USS Lexington (CV-2) and USS Yorktown (CV-5) engaged in the battle of the Coral Sea. The battle was over before they could arrive on-scene. Enterprise was then directed to perform a feint towards Nauru and Banaba (Ocean) islands which caused the Japanese to delay Operation RY to seize the two islands. That operation completed Enterprise now steamed for Pearl Harbor.
At 0000 on 20 May, "Big E" crossed the International Dateline going East. At 0420 flight quarters sounded and at 0525 Enterprise turned into the wind and increased speed to 25 knots to begin her launch cycle for the dawn patrol. She was launching a package of six CAP inner air patrol fighters and 16 scout reconnaissance aircraft from VS-6 to search a designated sector (300-090) to a distance of 200 miles.
Ensign William P. West (now returned to duty) and AMM2 Milton W. Clark were the pilot and gunner respectively in Scouting Squadron Six aircraft 6-S-2. Their aircraft was positioned early in the launch. At 0536, as West began his run down the deck to take-off, something went wrong. As the plane lifted off the engine stalled. The plane rolled to the right and plunged into the water. Enterprise stopped her engines and maneuvered to avoid the aircraft. Stunned but cogent, West unhitched his harness and got out onto the wing. His gunner, AMM2 Clark was also able to exit and clear the aircraft. However, just as the plane was going under, West's boot got tangled in the radio antennae wire. He was unable to free himself and the plane pulled him under. Clark was rescued by the plane-guard destroyer USS Conyngham (DD-371). At 0540, Enterprise commenced launching her aircraft. USS Conyngham would go on during WWII to earn 14 battle stars. She was sunk as a target during the atomic bomb tests in 1946. Enterprise moored at Pearl Harbor on 26 May 1942.
Compiler's note: Some newspaper sources indicate that Ens. West was killed in action. He was not. He died in an accident during a launch of his squadron for a reconnaissance flight. Nevertheless, the fact that he died in an accident doesn't diminish the fact that he died in the line of duty in service to his country.
Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor two days later on 28 May 1942, and with USS Hornet (CV-8), flew their respective air groups on board not long after steaming out of the harbor. Once all aircraft were safely on board the two carriers steamed toward a point on the navigation chart Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed a short time later.
Early on the morning on 4 Jun 1942 aircraft of the USS Enterprise's air group six launched to attack the Japanese carrier striking force that was approaching the Midway atoll. Fifteen SBDs from VS-6 flew off Enterprise's flight deck at 0706. They departed in three five-plane divisions. They were followed by 15 Dauntlesses from VB-6. Along the way Ens. Eldor E. Rodenburg in 6-S-9, first division, returned the the ship because of faulty equipment. Neither Ensign Campbell nor AMM2 Clark were assigned planes for the day's attacks. For several hours the dive bombers of VS-6 and VB-6 under the command of the Enterprise Air Group's Lcdr Wade McCluskey searched the blue waters of the Pacific for the enemy fleet. With gas running very low in all bombers the tactical situation was becoming critical. At 0955, McClusky got the break that would change the course of WWII. He spotted a lone Japanese destroyer Arashi steaming at high speed toward the northeast.
VS-6 and VB-6 had little enemy fighter contact as they approached their targets and during the actual dive bomber maneuver. VS-6 scored several direct hits on the enemy carrier Kaga causing fatal damage to her. VB-6 also had fatal hits on Kaga and Agaki. However, after pull-out they had to thread their way through a gauntlet of swarming enemy fighters and a hail of anti-aircraft fire. Of the fifteen dive bombers from VS-6 that took off from the Enterprise that morning only six survived the attack. Enemy anti-aircraft fire after dive pull-out and fuel exhaustion took the biggest toll on this squadron after the initial attacks. Of thirty three Enterprise SBDs launched against Japanese carrier, sixteen planes failed to return.
Later in the afternoon of 4 Jun 1942, Enterprise launched a strike package of SBDs (25 aircraft) to attack the Japanese carrier Hiryu. The strike formation was cobbled together from the survivors of the morning attacks and those held in reserve. Lt Earl Gallaher, skipper of VS-6, would lead the attack against Hiryu. The strike package began launching at 1525.Their attack on Hiryu began at 1701. By 1730 Hiryu was a flaming wreck -- fatally wounded. AMM2 Clark was not assigned to any of the Enterprise scouts on 04 June 1942.
On Friday evening, 5 June 1942, Ensign Clarence Earl Vammen Jr—flying a Douglas SBD-3 Dauntless dive bomber (6-S-1), with AMM2 Milton W. Clark in the rear seat—took off with eight other planes of VS-6, as part of the strike package launched to locate and sink what had been erroneously reported as two enemy carriers. Subsequently, the SBD's from Enterprise and Hornet found and attacked what they reported to be a "Japanese CL" (light cruiser)— a ship that turned out to be the destroyer Tanikaze. The Dauntlesses that made the dusk attack failed to score any hits with their 500-pound bombs on the twisting, turning destroyer. Vammen, who had never received instruction in night carrier recoveries, made his first night landing—not on Enterprise, but on Hornet. This error may have cost them their lives.
The next morning, 6 June, Vammen and Clark joined Hornet's planes in attacking the fleeing Japanese heavy cruisers Mogami and Mikuma, a strike that inflicted such severe damage on the Mikuma that she sank later that day. Mogami limped back to Japan and was out of action for the next two years. During the attack, Ens. Vammen's plane suffered a direct hit by anti-aircraft fire and disintegrated in flight. His was one of only two American aircraft lost that day and the last ones lost in the battle of Midway. The other dive bomber lost was that of Ens. Don T. Griswold with his gunner, ARM1 Kenneth C Bunch from the Hornet's VS-8. The remains of the four were unrecoverable.
Ens. Vammen and his gunner, AMM2 Milton W. Clark, were listed as missing in action on 06 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 07 Jun 1943. AMM2 Milton W Clark was (posthumously) awarded the Air Medal, Purple Heart, Enterprise Presidential Unit Citation and ribbon, American Defense Service Medal with Fleet Clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two bronze stars and the World War II Victory Medal.
His NOK was his mother, Mrs. Ida* Clark, 619 Dale *Street, Plainview, Texas. (*Note; Mother's name was Ada vice Ida and she lived at 619 Date St vice Dale St.). She received a telegram from the Navy Department on 18 Jun 1942 notifying her that Milton W. Clark, her son, was missing in the service of his country.
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Commander In Chief, Pacific – Letter of Commendation
Awarded (Posthumously) to Milton Wayne Clark, Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class, United States Navy, "For distinguished service in the line of his profession as an aircraft gunner in a scouting squadron when he participated in the initial attack on the Marshall Islands. In this attack effected in the face of enemy fire, he shot down one fighter and later drove off another after his pilot had been wounded."
(Signed) C.W. Nimitz
Admiral, US Pacific Fleet
Compiler's note: the format of the LOC is only an estimate on my part. The text within the quotes is from the actual citation reproduced in a newspaper.
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The central text of the Air Medal citation from the Navy's Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 312 (March 1943) reads:
The Air Medal was awarded (Posthumously) to Milton W. Clark, Aviation Machinist's Mate Second Class, United States Navy, for his achievement as gunner of a scouting squadron plane in the Battle of Midway. He took part in persistent attacks against harassing Japanese aircraft, at the same time keeping his pilot continuously informed, despite the distraction of antiaircraft barrage and enemy fighter opposition.
Visit his second cenotaph in Plainview Memorial Park, Plainview, TX. Recently, FindAGraver, Sandy Lindeman, posted a photo of this marker that confirms his identity. He never used the name Milton. It was difficult to prove that Wayne Clark in Plainview's 1930 census was Milton Wayne Clark until now. Thank you Sandy.
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Lubbock Morning Avalanche - Lubbock, TX, Friday, January 22, 1943. p.9
Washington, Jan 21 - Cited For Midway Bravery
Decoration of 12 Officer and four enlisted men of the navy for heroic conduct was announced by the navy department today. Enlisted men were awarded the air medal for heroism in the battle of Midway included Milton W. Clark, 22, aviation machinists mate 2nd class, listed as missing in action. He is the son of Mrs. Ida Clark, 619 Dale* Street, Plainview, Texas.
*Note: Address was 619 Date St and his mother's name was Ada vice Ida.
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The Enterprise Presidential Unit Citation reads:
For consistently outstanding performance and distinguished achievement during repeated action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific war area, 7 December 1941, to 15 November 1942. Participating in nearly every major carrier engagement in the first year of the war, the Enterprise and her air group, exclusive of far-flung destruction of hostile shore installations throughout the battle area, did sink or damage on her own a total of 35 Japanese vessels and shot down a total of 185 Japanese aircraft. Her aggressive spirit and superb combat efficiency are fitting tribute to the officers and men who so gallantly established her as an ahead bulwark in the defense of the American nation.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls of 01 Feb 1942; Wake Island raid, 24 Feb 1942; Marcus Island raid, 04 Mar 1942; Battle of Midway, 4-6 Jun 1942; Occupation of Guadalcanal, 7-8 Aug 1942; Battle of Stewart Islands, 24 Aug 1942; Battle of Santa Cruz Islands, 26 Oct 1942; and Battle of Solomon Islands, 14-15 Nov 1942.
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His family also received a commemoration from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It reads: In grateful memory of Milton Wayne Clark, who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. ENTERPRISE, 7 JUNE 1943 (Presumed). He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die that freedom might live and grow and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it, he lives -- in a way that humbles the undertakings of most men.
(Signed) Franklin D. Roosevelt,
President of the United States
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Task Force 16 Citation Recognizing its contribution to the Doolittle Raid, 18 April 1942
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Second World War, it is appropriate that we take time to reflect on the unique and daring accomplishments achieved early in the war by Task Force 16. Sailing westward under sealed orders in April 1942, only four months after the devastating raid on Pearl Harbor, Task Force 16, carrying sixteen Army B-25 bombers, proceeded into history. Facing adverse weather and under constant threat of discovery before bombers could be launched to strike the Japanese homeland, the crews of the ships and LTC Doolittle's bombers persevered. On 18 April 1942 at 14:45, perseverance produced success as radio broadcasts from Japan confirmed the success of the raids. These raids were an enormous boost to the morale of the American people in those early and dark days of the war and a harbinger of the future for the Japanese High Command that had so foolishly awakened "The Sleeping Giant." These exploits, which so inspired the service men and women and the nation live on today and are remembered when the necessity of success against all odds is required.
(Signed) John H.Dalton
Secretary of the Navy
15 May 1995
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Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat is the Air Medal.
Compiler's note: I believe that Clark should have be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight during the Marshall Island raid when he shot down one and probably two enemy fighter planes.
(bio #187 compiled by Gerry Lawton [G47/GML470])
Clark's Military Hall of Honor ID: #89894
Mattie, Wayne (as he was known in high school) and Leona attended Plainview High School, Plainview, TX during the 1930s. Wayne was a football letter-man in 1937 and played the position of Center. In addition to football, Wayne was also a participant in Hi-y Club, Public Speaking, and the Tennis Club. He graduated in May 1939 from Plainview High School.
He applied for Navy enlistment in the early Summer. The enlistment process required that he provide an application, birth certificate, permission from his parents to enlist, three personal references, a police record check, sit for aptitude tests, and take a physical exam. After he completed that process, he was accepted for enlistment. He enlisted in the US Navy (NSN:356-23-36) for four years in September 1939 shortly after he finished high school. He transferred to the Naval Training Station, San Diego for recruit training as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S). In early January 1940, Clark was transferred to the Aviation Machinist's Mates "Class A" Service School. During his tenure at the Class "A" school he advanced in rate to Seaman Second Class (S2c). After he finished the school S2c transferred to the USS Enterprise (CV-6) and Scouting Squadron Six (VS-6). In late 1940, he was advanced to Seaman First Class (S1c) then to Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class (AMM3) in 1941. In February 1942 he was advanced in rate to Aviation Machinist's Mate Second Class (AMM2).
The Enterprise, "Big E" as she was called, was commissioned on 12 May 1938. During 1939, Enterprise and her embarked squadrons conducted shake down cruises and workup exercises at various times. While the ship was inport the squadrons were temporarily based ashore at their assigned airfields. In Sep 1939, Enterprise became part of the Hawaiian Detachment of the U.S. Fleet whose homeport was Pearl Harbor. In Jan 1940 Enterprise was engaged in exercises in Hawaiian waters. In early Feb, she steamed for Puget Sound Navy Shipyard for an overhaul after making a brief port call in San Diego. In late May, Enterprise, her overhaul completed, returned to San Diego for about a month. She returned to Pearl Harbor on 2 July 1940. Enterprise conducted exercises from August to early Nov in the Hawaiian area. Then on 09 Nov she steamed to San Diego until 2 Dec when she got underway for the Puget Sound Navy Shipyard in Bremerton, WA.
Enterprise returned to Pearl Harbor on 21 Jan 1941. During 1941 Enterprise made 13 round trips between Hawaii and San Diego from April - Nov conducting exercise cycles and squadron work-ups. During those months she also shuttled Army Air Force P-39s and P-40s, as well as, Navy aircraft from US West Coast ports to Pearl Harbor and beyond. On 28 Nov 1941, Enterprise, now operating in a war-time steaming condition, left San Diego with a cargo of Marine Fighting Squadron 211 (VMF-211) aircraft and pilots destined for Wake Island. The Marine pilots and their planes flew from Enterprise to Wake Island on 02 Dec 1941. Enterprise was scheduled to arrive back in Pearl Harbor on 06 Dec, but was delayed due to inclement weather.
In the early pre-dawn hours of 07 Dec 1941, Enterprise was 200 miles west of Oahu heading for a late afternoon docking at Pearl Harbor. Admiral Halsey planned to send 18 SBD dive bombers to search 150 miles ahead of the task force as a normal precaution. Instead of returning to Enterprise, the search flight was to continue directly to Pearl Harbor. The rest of the air group would follow that afternoon before she entered port. Leading the mission was Lcdr Howard L. Young, Commander Enterprise Air Group in his own SBD, Thirteen dive bombers from Lcdr Halstead L. Hopping's Scouting Six and four from Lcdr William R. Hollingsworth's Bombing Six. Launching began at 0618. Operating under strict radio silence, Halsey had not alert Pearl Harbor that his dive bombers were coming. He assumed his aircraft would not have any trouble identifying themselves, and ordinarily they wouldn't.
However, at 0755, 183 Japanese fighters, bombers and torpedo planes swarmed over the unsuspecting US Pacific Fleet. When the dive bombing group arrived over Pearl Harbor they were attacked by Japanese aircraft and shot at by friendly AA fire. Ensign William (Bill) Price West followed his wing-man - Lt Earl Gallaher to Ewa Field. There, however, the marines told them to take off and return to Ford Island. Along the way, friendly AA fire damaged several SBDs making them among the first Navy aviators to come under fire during the Pacific war. Among the group, seven SBDs were shot down, either from enemy action or friendly fire, Eight airmen were killed and two wounded. AMM3 M.W. Clark did not fly with any of these aircraft.
After the debacle at Pearl Harbor, Enterprise was sent on a belated attempt to relieve Wake Island. The attempt was called off. On 09 January 1942, Admiral Nimitz directed Admiral Halsey to raid the southern Marshall and northern Gilbert area employing air attack and ship bombardment.
On 01 Feb 1942 Ensign Bill Price West launched from the USS Enterprise on a raid of the Marshall Islands in Scout Bomber Dauntless (SBD) 6-S-12 from Scouting Squadron Six (VS-6). His gunner was AMM3 Milton W. Clark. As his attack group reached the island of ROI they began bombing targets. West was jumped by two Japanese Mitsubishi A5M Type 96"Claude" fighters. He maneuvered his plane such that his gunner was able to shoot down one of the "Claude" aircraft. Clark then took the second aircraft under fire. It was seen to roll over apparently out of control. Neither West nor Clark saw it crash however.
Clark was given credit for the first "kill" and a second probable "kill." West circled the island for a second attack when he saw an SBD in trouble. He dove into the fray driving off the enemy aircraft enabling the friendly plane to escape. However, he was met with burst of gunfire from an unseen enemy plane that knocked out his instrument panel and hit him in the shoulder seriously wounding him. He was able to return to Enterprise and land his plane safely. He was transferred from the Enterprise to the hospital ship, USS Solace (AH-5) on 05 Feb 1942 as a patient. His medical care complete, Ens. West was returned from Solace to the Enterprise on 13 Mar 1942.
At 0430 on 24 Feb 1942 flight quarters sounded on board Enterprise. Shortly after 0600 the CAP fighters began launching followed by the attack package bound for a raid against Wake Island. AMM2 Clark flew into action with his new pilot Ens. Robert Keith Campbell, USNR in SBD aircraft 6-S-12 in the second division led by Lt. Reginald Rutherford. The three division section was led by the new CO, Lt Wilmer Earl Gallaher.
For its part, Scouting Six damaged Wake's runway, destroyed four magazines or underground hangers, shot up a patrol craft, and also damaged several small buildings and one coast defense gun. By 0945, the fifty plane strike package of the Enterprise Air Group began to land back on board Enterprise. Scouting six had lost two SBDs in the Wake strike.
As the Enterprise and her escorts withdrew from Wake, Admiral Halsey received and urgent message from Admiral Nimitz (CINCPAC), "Desirable to strike Marcus if you think it feasible." Never one to shy away from a fight, the "Bull" turned his ships westward toward Marcus Island. At 0446 on 4 Mar 1942, Enterprise Air Group began launching its 38 plane strike package against Marcus Island. Led by the Lcdr Brigham Young in his command SBD he was followed by Scouting Six's 14 Scout bombers, then Bombing Six's 17 dive-bombers, then six Wildcat fighters. Ens. R.K. Campbell and AMM2 M.W. Clark flew in the second division of VS-6 in SBD - 6-S-12. The attacks began about 0640. Second division began their dive from 17,000 feet at 0650. AA and small arms fire was intense. VS-6 lost one aircraft. Damage consisted of a gasoline storage tank, radio transmitter and numerous "new" holes in the runways. By 0845, the strike package returned to Enterprise. Enterprise departed the area and steamed toward Pearl Harbor entering on 10 March. Her air group landed on Oahu prior to her entering port.
A little less than a month later, 08 April 1942, Big E steamed out of Pearl Harbor in company with Task Force Sixteen. The air group landed on board not long after Entreprise's departure. On 13 April, Enterprise rendezvoused with the USS Hornet (CV-8) and her Task Force Eighteen. Hornet's mission was to deliver 16 Army bombers, (B-25) and their bombs to targets in and around Tokyo, Japan. Enterprise's air group provided Combat Air Patrol (CAP) protection for the mission. On 18 April Doolittle's raid began with the B-25s launching at 0820. After Hornet finished launching the Army B-25s at 0921, Enterprise and Hornet commenced an easterly withdrawal at 25 knots. She steamed into Pearl Harbor on 25 April.
In early May, Enterprise and Hornet were directed to the South Pacific to assist aircraft carriers USS Lexington (CV-2) and USS Yorktown (CV-5) engaged in the battle of the Coral Sea. The battle was over before they could arrive on-scene. Enterprise was then directed to perform a feint towards Nauru and Banaba (Ocean) islands which caused the Japanese to delay Operation RY to seize the two islands. That operation completed Enterprise now steamed for Pearl Harbor.
At 0000 on 20 May, "Big E" crossed the International Dateline going East. At 0420 flight quarters sounded and at 0525 Enterprise turned into the wind and increased speed to 25 knots to begin her launch cycle for the dawn patrol. She was launching a package of six CAP inner air patrol fighters and 16 scout reconnaissance aircraft from VS-6 to search a designated sector (300-090) to a distance of 200 miles.
Ensign William P. West (now returned to duty) and AMM2 Milton W. Clark were the pilot and gunner respectively in Scouting Squadron Six aircraft 6-S-2. Their aircraft was positioned early in the launch. At 0536, as West began his run down the deck to take-off, something went wrong. As the plane lifted off the engine stalled. The plane rolled to the right and plunged into the water. Enterprise stopped her engines and maneuvered to avoid the aircraft. Stunned but cogent, West unhitched his harness and got out onto the wing. His gunner, AMM2 Clark was also able to exit and clear the aircraft. However, just as the plane was going under, West's boot got tangled in the radio antennae wire. He was unable to free himself and the plane pulled him under. Clark was rescued by the plane-guard destroyer USS Conyngham (DD-371). At 0540, Enterprise commenced launching her aircraft. USS Conyngham would go on during WWII to earn 14 battle stars. She was sunk as a target during the atomic bomb tests in 1946. Enterprise moored at Pearl Harbor on 26 May 1942.
Compiler's note: Some newspaper sources indicate that Ens. West was killed in action. He was not. He died in an accident during a launch of his squadron for a reconnaissance flight. Nevertheless, the fact that he died in an accident doesn't diminish the fact that he died in the line of duty in service to his country.
Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor two days later on 28 May 1942, and with USS Hornet (CV-8), flew their respective air groups on board not long after steaming out of the harbor. Once all aircraft were safely on board the two carriers steamed toward a point on the navigation chart Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed a short time later.
Early on the morning on 4 Jun 1942 aircraft of the USS Enterprise's air group six launched to attack the Japanese carrier striking force that was approaching the Midway atoll. Fifteen SBDs from VS-6 flew off Enterprise's flight deck at 0706. They departed in three five-plane divisions. They were followed by 15 Dauntlesses from VB-6. Along the way Ens. Eldor E. Rodenburg in 6-S-9, first division, returned the the ship because of faulty equipment. Neither Ensign Campbell nor AMM2 Clark were assigned planes for the day's attacks. For several hours the dive bombers of VS-6 and VB-6 under the command of the Enterprise Air Group's Lcdr Wade McCluskey searched the blue waters of the Pacific for the enemy fleet. With gas running very low in all bombers the tactical situation was becoming critical. At 0955, McClusky got the break that would change the course of WWII. He spotted a lone Japanese destroyer Arashi steaming at high speed toward the northeast.
VS-6 and VB-6 had little enemy fighter contact as they approached their targets and during the actual dive bomber maneuver. VS-6 scored several direct hits on the enemy carrier Kaga causing fatal damage to her. VB-6 also had fatal hits on Kaga and Agaki. However, after pull-out they had to thread their way through a gauntlet of swarming enemy fighters and a hail of anti-aircraft fire. Of the fifteen dive bombers from VS-6 that took off from the Enterprise that morning only six survived the attack. Enemy anti-aircraft fire after dive pull-out and fuel exhaustion took the biggest toll on this squadron after the initial attacks. Of thirty three Enterprise SBDs launched against Japanese carrier, sixteen planes failed to return.
Later in the afternoon of 4 Jun 1942, Enterprise launched a strike package of SBDs (25 aircraft) to attack the Japanese carrier Hiryu. The strike formation was cobbled together from the survivors of the morning attacks and those held in reserve. Lt Earl Gallaher, skipper of VS-6, would lead the attack against Hiryu. The strike package began launching at 1525.Their attack on Hiryu began at 1701. By 1730 Hiryu was a flaming wreck -- fatally wounded. AMM2 Clark was not assigned to any of the Enterprise scouts on 04 June 1942.
On Friday evening, 5 June 1942, Ensign Clarence Earl Vammen Jr—flying a Douglas SBD-3 Dauntless dive bomber (6-S-1), with AMM2 Milton W. Clark in the rear seat—took off with eight other planes of VS-6, as part of the strike package launched to locate and sink what had been erroneously reported as two enemy carriers. Subsequently, the SBD's from Enterprise and Hornet found and attacked what they reported to be a "Japanese CL" (light cruiser)— a ship that turned out to be the destroyer Tanikaze. The Dauntlesses that made the dusk attack failed to score any hits with their 500-pound bombs on the twisting, turning destroyer. Vammen, who had never received instruction in night carrier recoveries, made his first night landing—not on Enterprise, but on Hornet. This error may have cost them their lives.
The next morning, 6 June, Vammen and Clark joined Hornet's planes in attacking the fleeing Japanese heavy cruisers Mogami and Mikuma, a strike that inflicted such severe damage on the Mikuma that she sank later that day. Mogami limped back to Japan and was out of action for the next two years. During the attack, Ens. Vammen's plane suffered a direct hit by anti-aircraft fire and disintegrated in flight. His was one of only two American aircraft lost that day and the last ones lost in the battle of Midway. The other dive bomber lost was that of Ens. Don T. Griswold with his gunner, ARM1 Kenneth C Bunch from the Hornet's VS-8. The remains of the four were unrecoverable.
Ens. Vammen and his gunner, AMM2 Milton W. Clark, were listed as missing in action on 06 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 07 Jun 1943. AMM2 Milton W Clark was (posthumously) awarded the Air Medal, Purple Heart, Enterprise Presidential Unit Citation and ribbon, American Defense Service Medal with Fleet Clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two bronze stars and the World War II Victory Medal.
His NOK was his mother, Mrs. Ida* Clark, 619 Dale *Street, Plainview, Texas. (*Note; Mother's name was Ada vice Ida and she lived at 619 Date St vice Dale St.). She received a telegram from the Navy Department on 18 Jun 1942 notifying her that Milton W. Clark, her son, was missing in the service of his country.
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Commander In Chief, Pacific – Letter of Commendation
Awarded (Posthumously) to Milton Wayne Clark, Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class, United States Navy, "For distinguished service in the line of his profession as an aircraft gunner in a scouting squadron when he participated in the initial attack on the Marshall Islands. In this attack effected in the face of enemy fire, he shot down one fighter and later drove off another after his pilot had been wounded."
(Signed) C.W. Nimitz
Admiral, US Pacific Fleet
Compiler's note: the format of the LOC is only an estimate on my part. The text within the quotes is from the actual citation reproduced in a newspaper.
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The central text of the Air Medal citation from the Navy's Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 312 (March 1943) reads:
The Air Medal was awarded (Posthumously) to Milton W. Clark, Aviation Machinist's Mate Second Class, United States Navy, for his achievement as gunner of a scouting squadron plane in the Battle of Midway. He took part in persistent attacks against harassing Japanese aircraft, at the same time keeping his pilot continuously informed, despite the distraction of antiaircraft barrage and enemy fighter opposition.
Visit his second cenotaph in Plainview Memorial Park, Plainview, TX. Recently, FindAGraver, Sandy Lindeman, posted a photo of this marker that confirms his identity. He never used the name Milton. It was difficult to prove that Wayne Clark in Plainview's 1930 census was Milton Wayne Clark until now. Thank you Sandy.
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Lubbock Morning Avalanche - Lubbock, TX, Friday, January 22, 1943. p.9
Washington, Jan 21 - Cited For Midway Bravery
Decoration of 12 Officer and four enlisted men of the navy for heroic conduct was announced by the navy department today. Enlisted men were awarded the air medal for heroism in the battle of Midway included Milton W. Clark, 22, aviation machinists mate 2nd class, listed as missing in action. He is the son of Mrs. Ida Clark, 619 Dale* Street, Plainview, Texas.
*Note: Address was 619 Date St and his mother's name was Ada vice Ida.
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The Enterprise Presidential Unit Citation reads:
For consistently outstanding performance and distinguished achievement during repeated action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific war area, 7 December 1941, to 15 November 1942. Participating in nearly every major carrier engagement in the first year of the war, the Enterprise and her air group, exclusive of far-flung destruction of hostile shore installations throughout the battle area, did sink or damage on her own a total of 35 Japanese vessels and shot down a total of 185 Japanese aircraft. Her aggressive spirit and superb combat efficiency are fitting tribute to the officers and men who so gallantly established her as an ahead bulwark in the defense of the American nation.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls of 01 Feb 1942; Wake Island raid, 24 Feb 1942; Marcus Island raid, 04 Mar 1942; Battle of Midway, 4-6 Jun 1942; Occupation of Guadalcanal, 7-8 Aug 1942; Battle of Stewart Islands, 24 Aug 1942; Battle of Santa Cruz Islands, 26 Oct 1942; and Battle of Solomon Islands, 14-15 Nov 1942.
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His family also received a commemoration from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It reads: In grateful memory of Milton Wayne Clark, who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. ENTERPRISE, 7 JUNE 1943 (Presumed). He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die that freedom might live and grow and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it, he lives -- in a way that humbles the undertakings of most men.
(Signed) Franklin D. Roosevelt,
President of the United States
-------------------------------------------------------
Task Force 16 Citation Recognizing its contribution to the Doolittle Raid, 18 April 1942
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Second World War, it is appropriate that we take time to reflect on the unique and daring accomplishments achieved early in the war by Task Force 16. Sailing westward under sealed orders in April 1942, only four months after the devastating raid on Pearl Harbor, Task Force 16, carrying sixteen Army B-25 bombers, proceeded into history. Facing adverse weather and under constant threat of discovery before bombers could be launched to strike the Japanese homeland, the crews of the ships and LTC Doolittle's bombers persevered. On 18 April 1942 at 14:45, perseverance produced success as radio broadcasts from Japan confirmed the success of the raids. These raids were an enormous boost to the morale of the American people in those early and dark days of the war and a harbinger of the future for the Japanese High Command that had so foolishly awakened "The Sleeping Giant." These exploits, which so inspired the service men and women and the nation live on today and are remembered when the necessity of success against all odds is required.
(Signed) John H.Dalton
Secretary of the Navy
15 May 1995
---------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat is the Air Medal.
Compiler's note: I believe that Clark should have be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight during the Marshall Island raid when he shot down one and probably two enemy fighter planes.
(bio #187 compiled by Gerry Lawton [G47/GML470])
Clark's Military Hall of Honor ID: #89894
Milton Wayne was the son of John Barnes Clark and Ada M. Wells who married in Waurika, Jefferson, OK on 07 Sept 1913. Milton, or Wayne as he was known, was the brother of three sisters; Florene, Mattie Moditha, and Leona Elizabeth Clark. John and Ada divorced in the early 1940s. She later married William Elbert Humber as her second husband.
Mattie, Wayne (as he was known in high school) and Leona attended Plainview High School, Plainview, TX during the 1930s. Wayne was a football letter-man in 1937 and played the position of Center. In addition to football, Wayne was also a participant in Hi-y Club, Public Speaking, and the Tennis Club. He graduated in May 1939 from Plainview High School.
He applied for Navy enlistment in the early Summer. The enlistment process required that he provide an application, birth certificate, permission from his parents to enlist, three personal references, a police record check, sit for aptitude tests, and take a physical exam. After he completed that process, he was accepted for enlistment. He enlisted in the US Navy (NSN:356-23-36) for four years in September 1939 shortly after he finished high school. He transferred to the Naval Training Station, San Diego for recruit training as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S). In early January 1940, Clark was transferred to the Aviation Machinist's Mates "Class A" Service School. During his tenure at the Class "A" school he advanced in rate to Seaman Second Class (S2c). After he finished the school S2c transferred to the USS Enterprise (CV-6) and Scouting Squadron Six (VS-6). In late 1940, he was advanced to Seaman First Class (S1c) then to Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class (AMM3) in 1941. In February 1942 he was advanced in rate to Aviation Machinist's Mate Second Class (AMM2).
The Enterprise, "Big E" as she was called, was commissioned on 12 May 1938. During 1939, Enterprise and her embarked squadrons conducted shake down cruises and workup exercises at various times. While the ship was inport the squadrons were temporarily based ashore at their assigned airfields. In Sep 1939, Enterprise became part of the Hawaiian Detachment of the U.S. Fleet whose homeport was Pearl Harbor. In Jan 1940 Enterprise was engaged in exercises in Hawaiian waters. In early Feb, she steamed for Puget Sound Navy Shipyard for an overhaul after making a brief port call in San Diego. In late May, Enterprise, her overhaul completed, returned to San Diego for about a month. She returned to Pearl Harbor on 2 July 1940. Enterprise conducted exercises from August to early Nov in the Hawaiian area. Then on 09 Nov she steamed to San Diego until 2 Dec when she got underway for the Puget Sound Navy Shipyard in Bremerton, WA.
Enterprise returned to Pearl Harbor on 21 Jan 1941. During 1941 Enterprise made 13 round trips between Hawaii and San Diego from April - Nov conducting exercise cycles and squadron work-ups. During those months she also shuttled Army Air Force P-39s and P-40s, as well as, Navy aircraft from US West Coast ports to Pearl Harbor and beyond. On 28 Nov 1941, Enterprise, now operating in a war-time steaming condition, left San Diego with a cargo of Marine Fighting Squadron 211 (VMF-211) aircraft and pilots destined for Wake Island. The Marine pilots and their planes flew from Enterprise to Wake Island on 02 Dec 1941. Enterprise was scheduled to arrive back in Pearl Harbor on 06 Dec, but was delayed due to inclement weather.
In the early pre-dawn hours of 07 Dec 1941, Enterprise was 200 miles west of Oahu heading for a late afternoon docking at Pearl Harbor. Admiral Halsey planned to send 18 SBD dive bombers to search 150 miles ahead of the task force as a normal precaution. Instead of returning to Enterprise, the search flight was to continue directly to Pearl Harbor. The rest of the air group would follow that afternoon before she entered port. Leading the mission was Lcdr Howard L. Young, Commander Enterprise Air Group in his own SBD, Thirteen dive bombers from Lcdr Halstead L. Hopping's Scouting Six and four from Lcdr William R. Hollingsworth's Bombing Six. Launching began at 0618. Operating under strict radio silence, Halsey had not alert Pearl Harbor that his dive bombers were coming. He assumed his aircraft would not have any trouble identifying themselves, and ordinarily they wouldn't.
However, at 0755, 183 Japanese fighters, bombers and torpedo planes swarmed over the unsuspecting US Pacific Fleet. When the dive bombing group arrived over Pearl Harbor they were attacked by Japanese aircraft and shot at by friendly AA fire. Ensign William (Bill) Price West followed his wing-man - Lt Earl Gallaher to Ewa Field. There, however, the marines told them to take off and return to Ford Island. Along the way, friendly AA fire damaged several SBDs making them among the first Navy aviators to come under fire during the Pacific war. Among the group, seven SBDs were shot down, either from enemy action or friendly fire, Eight airmen were killed and two wounded. AMM3 M.W. Clark did not fly with any of these aircraft.
After the debacle at Pearl Harbor, Enterprise was sent on a belated attempt to relieve Wake Island. The attempt was called off. On 09 January 1942, Admiral Nimitz directed Admiral Halsey to raid the southern Marshall and northern Gilbert area employing air attack and ship bombardment.
On 01 Feb 1942 Ensign Bill Price West launched from the USS Enterprise on a raid of the Marshall Islands in Scout Bomber Dauntless (SBD) 6-S-12 from Scouting Squadron Six (VS-6). His gunner was AMM3 Milton W. Clark. As his attack group reached the island of ROI they began bombing targets. West was jumped by two Japanese Mitsubishi A5M Type 96"Claude" fighters. He maneuvered his plane such that his gunner was able to shoot down one of the "Claude" aircraft. Clark then took the second aircraft under fire. It was seen to roll over apparently out of control. Neither West nor Clark saw it crash however.
Clark was given credit for the first "kill" and a second probable "kill." West circled the island for a second attack when he saw an SBD in trouble. He dove into the fray driving off the enemy aircraft enabling the friendly plane to escape. However, he was met with burst of gunfire from an unseen enemy plane that knocked out his instrument panel and hit him in the shoulder seriously wounding him. He was able to return to Enterprise and land his plane safely. He was transferred from the Enterprise to the hospital ship, USS Solace (AH-5) on 05 Feb 1942 as a patient. His medical care complete, Ens. West was returned from Solace to the Enterprise on 13 Mar 1942.
At 0430 on 24 Feb 1942 flight quarters sounded on board Enterprise. Shortly after 0600 the CAP fighters began launching followed by the attack package bound for a raid against Wake Island. AMM2 Clark flew into action with his new pilot Ens. Robert Keith Campbell, USNR in SBD aircraft 6-S-12 in the second division led by Lt. Reginald Rutherford. The three division section was led by the new CO, Lt Wilmer Earl Gallaher.
For its part, Scouting Six damaged Wake's runway, destroyed four magazines or underground hangers, shot up a patrol craft, and also damaged several small buildings and one coast defense gun. By 0945, the fifty plane strike package of the Enterprise Air Group began to land back on board Enterprise. Scouting six had lost two SBDs in the Wake strike.
As the Enterprise and her escorts withdrew from Wake, Admiral Halsey received and urgent message from Admiral Nimitz (CINCPAC), "Desirable to strike Marcus if you think it feasible." Never one to shy away from a fight, the "Bull" turned his ships westward toward Marcus Island. At 0446 on 4 Mar 1942, Enterprise Air Group began launching its 38 plane strike package against Marcus Island. Led by the Lcdr Brigham Young in his command SBD he was followed by Scouting Six's 14 Scout bombers, then Bombing Six's 17 dive-bombers, then six Wildcat fighters. Ens. R.K. Campbell and AMM2 M.W. Clark flew in the second division of VS-6 in SBD - 6-S-12. The attacks began about 0640. Second division began their dive from 17,000 feet at 0650. AA and small arms fire was intense. VS-6 lost one aircraft. Damage consisted of a gasoline storage tank, radio transmitter and numerous "new" holes in the runways. By 0845, the strike package returned to Enterprise. Enterprise departed the area and steamed toward Pearl Harbor entering on 10 March. Her air group landed on Oahu prior to her entering port.
A little less than a month later, 08 April 1942, Big E steamed out of Pearl Harbor in company with Task Force Sixteen. The air group landed on board not long after Entreprise's departure. On 13 April, Enterprise rendezvoused with the USS Hornet (CV-8) and her Task Force Eighteen. Hornet's mission was to deliver 16 Army bombers, (B-25) and their bombs to targets in and around Tokyo, Japan. Enterprise's air group provided Combat Air Patrol (CAP) protection for the mission. On 18 April Doolittle's raid began with the B-25s launching at 0820. After Hornet finished launching the Army B-25s at 0921, Enterprise and Hornet commenced an easterly withdrawal at 25 knots. She steamed into Pearl Harbor on 25 April.
In early May, Enterprise and Hornet were directed to the South Pacific to assist aircraft carriers USS Lexington (CV-2) and USS Yorktown (CV-5) engaged in the battle of the Coral Sea. The battle was over before they could arrive on-scene. Enterprise was then directed to perform a feint towards Nauru and Banaba (Ocean) islands which caused the Japanese to delay Operation RY to seize the two islands. That operation completed Enterprise now steamed for Pearl Harbor.
At 0000 on 20 May, "Big E" crossed the International Dateline going East. At 0420 flight quarters sounded and at 0525 Enterprise turned into the wind and increased speed to 25 knots to begin her launch cycle for the dawn patrol. She was launching a package of six CAP inner air patrol fighters and 16 scout reconnaissance aircraft from VS-6 to search a designated sector (300-090) to a distance of 200 miles.
Ensign William P. West (now returned to duty) and AMM2 Milton W. Clark were the pilot and gunner respectively in Scouting Squadron Six aircraft 6-S-2. Their aircraft was positioned early in the launch. At 0536, as West began his run down the deck to take-off, something went wrong. As the plane lifted off the engine stalled. The plane rolled to the right and plunged into the water. Enterprise stopped her engines and maneuvered to avoid the aircraft. Stunned but cogent, West unhitched his harness and got out onto the wing. His gunner, AMM2 Clark was also able to exit and clear the aircraft. However, just as the plane was going under, West's boot got tangled in the radio antennae wire. He was unable to free himself and the plane pulled him under. Clark was rescued by the plane-guard destroyer USS Conyngham (DD-371). At 0540, Enterprise commenced launching her aircraft. USS Conyngham would go on during WWII to earn 14 battle stars. She was sunk as a target during the atomic bomb tests in 1946. Enterprise moored at Pearl Harbor on 26 May 1942.
Compiler's note: Some newspaper sources indicate that Ens. West was killed in action. He was not. He died in an accident during a launch of his squadron for a reconnaissance flight. Nevertheless, the fact that he died in an accident doesn't diminish the fact that he died in the line of duty in service to his country.
Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor two days later on 28 May 1942, and with USS Hornet (CV-8), flew their respective air groups on board not long after steaming out of the harbor. Once all aircraft were safely on board the two carriers steamed toward a point on the navigation chart Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed a short time later.
Early on the morning on 4 Jun 1942 aircraft of the USS Enterprise's air group six launched to attack the Japanese carrier striking force that was approaching the Midway atoll. Fifteen SBDs from VS-6 flew off Enterprise's flight deck at 0706. They departed in three five-plane divisions. They were followed by 15 Dauntlesses from VB-6. Along the way Ens. Eldor E. Rodenburg in 6-S-9, first division, returned the the ship because of faulty equipment. Neither Ensign Campbell nor AMM2 Clark were assigned planes for the day's attacks. For several hours the dive bombers of VS-6 and VB-6 under the command of the Enterprise Air Group's Lcdr Wade McCluskey searched the blue waters of the Pacific for the enemy fleet. With gas running very low in all bombers the tactical situation was becoming critical. At 0955, McClusky got the break that would change the course of WWII. He spotted a lone Japanese destroyer Arashi steaming at high speed toward the northeast.
VS-6 and VB-6 had little enemy fighter contact as they approached their targets and during the actual dive bomber maneuver. VS-6 scored several direct hits on the enemy carrier Kaga causing fatal damage to her. VB-6 also had fatal hits on Kaga and Agaki. However, after pull-out they had to thread their way through a gauntlet of swarming enemy fighters and a hail of anti-aircraft fire. Of the fifteen dive bombers from VS-6 that took off from the Enterprise that morning only six survived the attack. Enemy anti-aircraft fire after dive pull-out and fuel exhaustion took the biggest toll on this squadron after the initial attacks. Of thirty three Enterprise SBDs launched against Japanese carrier, sixteen planes failed to return.
Later in the afternoon of 4 Jun 1942, Enterprise launched a strike package of SBDs (25 aircraft) to attack the Japanese carrier Hiryu. The strike formation was cobbled together from the survivors of the morning attacks and those held in reserve. Lt Earl Gallaher, skipper of VS-6, would lead the attack against Hiryu. The strike package began launching at 1525.Their attack on Hiryu began at 1701. By 1730 Hiryu was a flaming wreck -- fatally wounded. AMM2 Clark was not assigned to any of the Enterprise scouts on 04 June 1942.
On Friday evening, 5 June 1942, Ensign Clarence Earl Vammen Jr—flying a Douglas SBD-3 Dauntless dive bomber (6-S-1), with AMM2 Milton W. Clark in the rear seat—took off with eight other planes of VS-6, as part of the strike package launched to locate and sink what had been erroneously reported as two enemy carriers. Subsequently, the SBD's from Enterprise and Hornet found and attacked what they reported to be a "Japanese CL" (light cruiser)— a ship that turned out to be the destroyer Tanikaze. The Dauntlesses that made the dusk attack failed to score any hits with their 500-pound bombs on the twisting, turning destroyer. Vammen, who had never received instruction in night carrier recoveries, made his first night landing—not on Enterprise, but on Hornet. This error may have cost them their lives.
The next morning, 6 June, Vammen and Clark joined Hornet's planes in attacking the fleeing Japanese heavy cruisers Mogami and Mikuma, a strike that inflicted such severe damage on the Mikuma that she sank later that day. Mogami limped back to Japan and was out of action for the next two years. During the attack, Ens. Vammen's plane suffered a direct hit by anti-aircraft fire and disintegrated in flight. His was one of only two American aircraft lost that day and the last ones lost in the battle of Midway. The other dive bomber lost was that of Ens. Don T. Griswold with his gunner, ARM1 Kenneth C Bunch from the Hornet's VS-8. The remains of the four were unrecoverable.
Ens. Vammen and his gunner, AMM2 Milton W. Clark, were listed as missing in action on 06 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 07 Jun 1943. AMM2 Milton W Clark was (posthumously) awarded the Air Medal, Purple Heart, Enterprise Presidential Unit Citation and ribbon, American Defense Service Medal with Fleet Clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two bronze stars and the World War II Victory Medal.
His NOK was his mother, Mrs. Ida* Clark, 619 Dale *Street, Plainview, Texas. (*Note; Mother's name was Ada vice Ida and she lived at 619 Date St vice Dale St.). She received a telegram from the Navy Department on 18 Jun 1942 notifying her that Milton W. Clark, her son, was missing in the service of his country.
----------------------------------------
Commander In Chief, Pacific – Letter of Commendation
Awarded (Posthumously) to Milton Wayne Clark, Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class, United States Navy, "For distinguished service in the line of his profession as an aircraft gunner in a scouting squadron when he participated in the initial attack on the Marshall Islands. In this attack effected in the face of enemy fire, he shot down one fighter and later drove off another after his pilot had been wounded."
(Signed) C.W. Nimitz
Admiral, US Pacific Fleet
Compiler's note: the format of the LOC is only an estimate on my part. The text within the quotes is from the actual citation reproduced in a newspaper.
-----------------------------------
The central text of the Air Medal citation from the Navy's Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 312 (March 1943) reads:
The Air Medal was awarded (Posthumously) to Milton W. Clark, Aviation Machinist's Mate Second Class, United States Navy, for his achievement as gunner of a scouting squadron plane in the Battle of Midway. He took part in persistent attacks against harassing Japanese aircraft, at the same time keeping his pilot continuously informed, despite the distraction of antiaircraft barrage and enemy fighter opposition.
Visit his second cenotaph in Plainview Memorial Park, Plainview, TX. Recently, FindAGraver, Sandy Lindeman, posted a photo of this marker that confirms his identity. He never used the name Milton. It was difficult to prove that Wayne Clark in Plainview's 1930 census was Milton Wayne Clark until now. Thank you Sandy.
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Lubbock Morning Avalanche - Lubbock, TX, Friday, January 22, 1943. p.9
Washington, Jan 21 - Cited For Midway Bravery
Decoration of 12 Officer and four enlisted men of the navy for heroic conduct was announced by the navy department today. Enlisted men were awarded the air medal for heroism in the battle of Midway included Milton W. Clark, 22, aviation machinists mate 2nd class, listed as missing in action. He is the son of Mrs. Ida Clark, 619 Dale* Street, Plainview, Texas.
*Note: Address was 619 Date St and his mother's name was Ada vice Ida.
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The Enterprise Presidential Unit Citation reads:
For consistently outstanding performance and distinguished achievement during repeated action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific war area, 7 December 1941, to 15 November 1942. Participating in nearly every major carrier engagement in the first year of the war, the Enterprise and her air group, exclusive of far-flung destruction of hostile shore installations throughout the battle area, did sink or damage on her own a total of 35 Japanese vessels and shot down a total of 185 Japanese aircraft. Her aggressive spirit and superb combat efficiency are fitting tribute to the officers and men who so gallantly established her as an ahead bulwark in the defense of the American nation.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls of 01 Feb 1942; Wake Island raid, 24 Feb 1942; Marcus Island raid, 04 Mar 1942; Battle of Midway, 4-6 Jun 1942; Occupation of Guadalcanal, 7-8 Aug 1942; Battle of Stewart Islands, 24 Aug 1942; Battle of Santa Cruz Islands, 26 Oct 1942; and Battle of Solomon Islands, 14-15 Nov 1942.
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His family also received a commemoration from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It reads: In grateful memory of Milton Wayne Clark, who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. ENTERPRISE, 7 JUNE 1943 (Presumed). He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die that freedom might live and grow and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it, he lives -- in a way that humbles the undertakings of most men.
(Signed) Franklin D. Roosevelt,
President of the United States
-------------------------------------------------------
Task Force 16 Citation Recognizing its contribution to the Doolittle Raid, 18 April 1942
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Second World War, it is appropriate that we take time to reflect on the unique and daring accomplishments achieved early in the war by Task Force 16. Sailing westward under sealed orders in April 1942, only four months after the devastating raid on Pearl Harbor, Task Force 16, carrying sixteen Army B-25 bombers, proceeded into history. Facing adverse weather and under constant threat of discovery before bombers could be launched to strike the Japanese homeland, the crews of the ships and LTC Doolittle's bombers persevered. On 18 April 1942 at 14:45, perseverance produced success as radio broadcasts from Japan confirmed the success of the raids. These raids were an enormous boost to the morale of the American people in those early and dark days of the war and a harbinger of the future for the Japanese High Command that had so foolishly awakened "The Sleeping Giant." These exploits, which so inspired the service men and women and the nation live on today and are remembered when the necessity of success against all odds is required.
(Signed) John H.Dalton
Secretary of the Navy
15 May 1995
---------------------------------------
Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat is the Air Medal.
Compiler's note: I believe that Clark should have be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight during the Marshall Island raid when he shot down one and probably two enemy fighter planes.
(bio #187 compiled by Gerry Lawton [G47/GML470])
Clark's Military Hall of Honor ID: #89894
Mattie, Wayne (as he was known in high school) and Leona attended Plainview High School, Plainview, TX during the 1930s. Wayne was a football letter-man in 1937 and played the position of Center. In addition to football, Wayne was also a participant in Hi-y Club, Public Speaking, and the Tennis Club. He graduated in May 1939 from Plainview High School.
He applied for Navy enlistment in the early Summer. The enlistment process required that he provide an application, birth certificate, permission from his parents to enlist, three personal references, a police record check, sit for aptitude tests, and take a physical exam. After he completed that process, he was accepted for enlistment. He enlisted in the US Navy (NSN:356-23-36) for four years in September 1939 shortly after he finished high school. He transferred to the Naval Training Station, San Diego for recruit training as an Apprentice Seaman (A.S). In early January 1940, Clark was transferred to the Aviation Machinist's Mates "Class A" Service School. During his tenure at the Class "A" school he advanced in rate to Seaman Second Class (S2c). After he finished the school S2c transferred to the USS Enterprise (CV-6) and Scouting Squadron Six (VS-6). In late 1940, he was advanced to Seaman First Class (S1c) then to Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class (AMM3) in 1941. In February 1942 he was advanced in rate to Aviation Machinist's Mate Second Class (AMM2).
The Enterprise, "Big E" as she was called, was commissioned on 12 May 1938. During 1939, Enterprise and her embarked squadrons conducted shake down cruises and workup exercises at various times. While the ship was inport the squadrons were temporarily based ashore at their assigned airfields. In Sep 1939, Enterprise became part of the Hawaiian Detachment of the U.S. Fleet whose homeport was Pearl Harbor. In Jan 1940 Enterprise was engaged in exercises in Hawaiian waters. In early Feb, she steamed for Puget Sound Navy Shipyard for an overhaul after making a brief port call in San Diego. In late May, Enterprise, her overhaul completed, returned to San Diego for about a month. She returned to Pearl Harbor on 2 July 1940. Enterprise conducted exercises from August to early Nov in the Hawaiian area. Then on 09 Nov she steamed to San Diego until 2 Dec when she got underway for the Puget Sound Navy Shipyard in Bremerton, WA.
Enterprise returned to Pearl Harbor on 21 Jan 1941. During 1941 Enterprise made 13 round trips between Hawaii and San Diego from April - Nov conducting exercise cycles and squadron work-ups. During those months she also shuttled Army Air Force P-39s and P-40s, as well as, Navy aircraft from US West Coast ports to Pearl Harbor and beyond. On 28 Nov 1941, Enterprise, now operating in a war-time steaming condition, left San Diego with a cargo of Marine Fighting Squadron 211 (VMF-211) aircraft and pilots destined for Wake Island. The Marine pilots and their planes flew from Enterprise to Wake Island on 02 Dec 1941. Enterprise was scheduled to arrive back in Pearl Harbor on 06 Dec, but was delayed due to inclement weather.
In the early pre-dawn hours of 07 Dec 1941, Enterprise was 200 miles west of Oahu heading for a late afternoon docking at Pearl Harbor. Admiral Halsey planned to send 18 SBD dive bombers to search 150 miles ahead of the task force as a normal precaution. Instead of returning to Enterprise, the search flight was to continue directly to Pearl Harbor. The rest of the air group would follow that afternoon before she entered port. Leading the mission was Lcdr Howard L. Young, Commander Enterprise Air Group in his own SBD, Thirteen dive bombers from Lcdr Halstead L. Hopping's Scouting Six and four from Lcdr William R. Hollingsworth's Bombing Six. Launching began at 0618. Operating under strict radio silence, Halsey had not alert Pearl Harbor that his dive bombers were coming. He assumed his aircraft would not have any trouble identifying themselves, and ordinarily they wouldn't.
However, at 0755, 183 Japanese fighters, bombers and torpedo planes swarmed over the unsuspecting US Pacific Fleet. When the dive bombing group arrived over Pearl Harbor they were attacked by Japanese aircraft and shot at by friendly AA fire. Ensign William (Bill) Price West followed his wing-man - Lt Earl Gallaher to Ewa Field. There, however, the marines told them to take off and return to Ford Island. Along the way, friendly AA fire damaged several SBDs making them among the first Navy aviators to come under fire during the Pacific war. Among the group, seven SBDs were shot down, either from enemy action or friendly fire, Eight airmen were killed and two wounded. AMM3 M.W. Clark did not fly with any of these aircraft.
After the debacle at Pearl Harbor, Enterprise was sent on a belated attempt to relieve Wake Island. The attempt was called off. On 09 January 1942, Admiral Nimitz directed Admiral Halsey to raid the southern Marshall and northern Gilbert area employing air attack and ship bombardment.
On 01 Feb 1942 Ensign Bill Price West launched from the USS Enterprise on a raid of the Marshall Islands in Scout Bomber Dauntless (SBD) 6-S-12 from Scouting Squadron Six (VS-6). His gunner was AMM3 Milton W. Clark. As his attack group reached the island of ROI they began bombing targets. West was jumped by two Japanese Mitsubishi A5M Type 96"Claude" fighters. He maneuvered his plane such that his gunner was able to shoot down one of the "Claude" aircraft. Clark then took the second aircraft under fire. It was seen to roll over apparently out of control. Neither West nor Clark saw it crash however.
Clark was given credit for the first "kill" and a second probable "kill." West circled the island for a second attack when he saw an SBD in trouble. He dove into the fray driving off the enemy aircraft enabling the friendly plane to escape. However, he was met with burst of gunfire from an unseen enemy plane that knocked out his instrument panel and hit him in the shoulder seriously wounding him. He was able to return to Enterprise and land his plane safely. He was transferred from the Enterprise to the hospital ship, USS Solace (AH-5) on 05 Feb 1942 as a patient. His medical care complete, Ens. West was returned from Solace to the Enterprise on 13 Mar 1942.
At 0430 on 24 Feb 1942 flight quarters sounded on board Enterprise. Shortly after 0600 the CAP fighters began launching followed by the attack package bound for a raid against Wake Island. AMM2 Clark flew into action with his new pilot Ens. Robert Keith Campbell, USNR in SBD aircraft 6-S-12 in the second division led by Lt. Reginald Rutherford. The three division section was led by the new CO, Lt Wilmer Earl Gallaher.
For its part, Scouting Six damaged Wake's runway, destroyed four magazines or underground hangers, shot up a patrol craft, and also damaged several small buildings and one coast defense gun. By 0945, the fifty plane strike package of the Enterprise Air Group began to land back on board Enterprise. Scouting six had lost two SBDs in the Wake strike.
As the Enterprise and her escorts withdrew from Wake, Admiral Halsey received and urgent message from Admiral Nimitz (CINCPAC), "Desirable to strike Marcus if you think it feasible." Never one to shy away from a fight, the "Bull" turned his ships westward toward Marcus Island. At 0446 on 4 Mar 1942, Enterprise Air Group began launching its 38 plane strike package against Marcus Island. Led by the Lcdr Brigham Young in his command SBD he was followed by Scouting Six's 14 Scout bombers, then Bombing Six's 17 dive-bombers, then six Wildcat fighters. Ens. R.K. Campbell and AMM2 M.W. Clark flew in the second division of VS-6 in SBD - 6-S-12. The attacks began about 0640. Second division began their dive from 17,000 feet at 0650. AA and small arms fire was intense. VS-6 lost one aircraft. Damage consisted of a gasoline storage tank, radio transmitter and numerous "new" holes in the runways. By 0845, the strike package returned to Enterprise. Enterprise departed the area and steamed toward Pearl Harbor entering on 10 March. Her air group landed on Oahu prior to her entering port.
A little less than a month later, 08 April 1942, Big E steamed out of Pearl Harbor in company with Task Force Sixteen. The air group landed on board not long after Entreprise's departure. On 13 April, Enterprise rendezvoused with the USS Hornet (CV-8) and her Task Force Eighteen. Hornet's mission was to deliver 16 Army bombers, (B-25) and their bombs to targets in and around Tokyo, Japan. Enterprise's air group provided Combat Air Patrol (CAP) protection for the mission. On 18 April Doolittle's raid began with the B-25s launching at 0820. After Hornet finished launching the Army B-25s at 0921, Enterprise and Hornet commenced an easterly withdrawal at 25 knots. She steamed into Pearl Harbor on 25 April.
In early May, Enterprise and Hornet were directed to the South Pacific to assist aircraft carriers USS Lexington (CV-2) and USS Yorktown (CV-5) engaged in the battle of the Coral Sea. The battle was over before they could arrive on-scene. Enterprise was then directed to perform a feint towards Nauru and Banaba (Ocean) islands which caused the Japanese to delay Operation RY to seize the two islands. That operation completed Enterprise now steamed for Pearl Harbor.
At 0000 on 20 May, "Big E" crossed the International Dateline going East. At 0420 flight quarters sounded and at 0525 Enterprise turned into the wind and increased speed to 25 knots to begin her launch cycle for the dawn patrol. She was launching a package of six CAP inner air patrol fighters and 16 scout reconnaissance aircraft from VS-6 to search a designated sector (300-090) to a distance of 200 miles.
Ensign William P. West (now returned to duty) and AMM2 Milton W. Clark were the pilot and gunner respectively in Scouting Squadron Six aircraft 6-S-2. Their aircraft was positioned early in the launch. At 0536, as West began his run down the deck to take-off, something went wrong. As the plane lifted off the engine stalled. The plane rolled to the right and plunged into the water. Enterprise stopped her engines and maneuvered to avoid the aircraft. Stunned but cogent, West unhitched his harness and got out onto the wing. His gunner, AMM2 Clark was also able to exit and clear the aircraft. However, just as the plane was going under, West's boot got tangled in the radio antennae wire. He was unable to free himself and the plane pulled him under. Clark was rescued by the plane-guard destroyer USS Conyngham (DD-371). At 0540, Enterprise commenced launching her aircraft. USS Conyngham would go on during WWII to earn 14 battle stars. She was sunk as a target during the atomic bomb tests in 1946. Enterprise moored at Pearl Harbor on 26 May 1942.
Compiler's note: Some newspaper sources indicate that Ens. West was killed in action. He was not. He died in an accident during a launch of his squadron for a reconnaissance flight. Nevertheless, the fact that he died in an accident doesn't diminish the fact that he died in the line of duty in service to his country.
Enterprise got underway from Pearl Harbor two days later on 28 May 1942, and with USS Hornet (CV-8), flew their respective air groups on board not long after steaming out of the harbor. Once all aircraft were safely on board the two carriers steamed toward a point on the navigation chart Northeast of Midway called "Point Luck." USS Yorktown (CV-5) followed a short time later.
Early on the morning on 4 Jun 1942 aircraft of the USS Enterprise's air group six launched to attack the Japanese carrier striking force that was approaching the Midway atoll. Fifteen SBDs from VS-6 flew off Enterprise's flight deck at 0706. They departed in three five-plane divisions. They were followed by 15 Dauntlesses from VB-6. Along the way Ens. Eldor E. Rodenburg in 6-S-9, first division, returned the the ship because of faulty equipment. Neither Ensign Campbell nor AMM2 Clark were assigned planes for the day's attacks. For several hours the dive bombers of VS-6 and VB-6 under the command of the Enterprise Air Group's Lcdr Wade McCluskey searched the blue waters of the Pacific for the enemy fleet. With gas running very low in all bombers the tactical situation was becoming critical. At 0955, McClusky got the break that would change the course of WWII. He spotted a lone Japanese destroyer Arashi steaming at high speed toward the northeast.
VS-6 and VB-6 had little enemy fighter contact as they approached their targets and during the actual dive bomber maneuver. VS-6 scored several direct hits on the enemy carrier Kaga causing fatal damage to her. VB-6 also had fatal hits on Kaga and Agaki. However, after pull-out they had to thread their way through a gauntlet of swarming enemy fighters and a hail of anti-aircraft fire. Of the fifteen dive bombers from VS-6 that took off from the Enterprise that morning only six survived the attack. Enemy anti-aircraft fire after dive pull-out and fuel exhaustion took the biggest toll on this squadron after the initial attacks. Of thirty three Enterprise SBDs launched against Japanese carrier, sixteen planes failed to return.
Later in the afternoon of 4 Jun 1942, Enterprise launched a strike package of SBDs (25 aircraft) to attack the Japanese carrier Hiryu. The strike formation was cobbled together from the survivors of the morning attacks and those held in reserve. Lt Earl Gallaher, skipper of VS-6, would lead the attack against Hiryu. The strike package began launching at 1525.Their attack on Hiryu began at 1701. By 1730 Hiryu was a flaming wreck -- fatally wounded. AMM2 Clark was not assigned to any of the Enterprise scouts on 04 June 1942.
On Friday evening, 5 June 1942, Ensign Clarence Earl Vammen Jr—flying a Douglas SBD-3 Dauntless dive bomber (6-S-1), with AMM2 Milton W. Clark in the rear seat—took off with eight other planes of VS-6, as part of the strike package launched to locate and sink what had been erroneously reported as two enemy carriers. Subsequently, the SBD's from Enterprise and Hornet found and attacked what they reported to be a "Japanese CL" (light cruiser)— a ship that turned out to be the destroyer Tanikaze. The Dauntlesses that made the dusk attack failed to score any hits with their 500-pound bombs on the twisting, turning destroyer. Vammen, who had never received instruction in night carrier recoveries, made his first night landing—not on Enterprise, but on Hornet. This error may have cost them their lives.
The next morning, 6 June, Vammen and Clark joined Hornet's planes in attacking the fleeing Japanese heavy cruisers Mogami and Mikuma, a strike that inflicted such severe damage on the Mikuma that she sank later that day. Mogami limped back to Japan and was out of action for the next two years. During the attack, Ens. Vammen's plane suffered a direct hit by anti-aircraft fire and disintegrated in flight. His was one of only two American aircraft lost that day and the last ones lost in the battle of Midway. The other dive bomber lost was that of Ens. Don T. Griswold with his gunner, ARM1 Kenneth C Bunch from the Hornet's VS-8. The remains of the four were unrecoverable.
Ens. Vammen and his gunner, AMM2 Milton W. Clark, were listed as missing in action on 06 Jun 1942 and presumed dead on 07 Jun 1943. AMM2 Milton W Clark was (posthumously) awarded the Air Medal, Purple Heart, Enterprise Presidential Unit Citation and ribbon, American Defense Service Medal with Fleet Clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two bronze stars and the World War II Victory Medal.
His NOK was his mother, Mrs. Ida* Clark, 619 Dale *Street, Plainview, Texas. (*Note; Mother's name was Ada vice Ida and she lived at 619 Date St vice Dale St.). She received a telegram from the Navy Department on 18 Jun 1942 notifying her that Milton W. Clark, her son, was missing in the service of his country.
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Commander In Chief, Pacific – Letter of Commendation
Awarded (Posthumously) to Milton Wayne Clark, Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class, United States Navy, "For distinguished service in the line of his profession as an aircraft gunner in a scouting squadron when he participated in the initial attack on the Marshall Islands. In this attack effected in the face of enemy fire, he shot down one fighter and later drove off another after his pilot had been wounded."
(Signed) C.W. Nimitz
Admiral, US Pacific Fleet
Compiler's note: the format of the LOC is only an estimate on my part. The text within the quotes is from the actual citation reproduced in a newspaper.
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The central text of the Air Medal citation from the Navy's Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 312 (March 1943) reads:
The Air Medal was awarded (Posthumously) to Milton W. Clark, Aviation Machinist's Mate Second Class, United States Navy, for his achievement as gunner of a scouting squadron plane in the Battle of Midway. He took part in persistent attacks against harassing Japanese aircraft, at the same time keeping his pilot continuously informed, despite the distraction of antiaircraft barrage and enemy fighter opposition.
Visit his second cenotaph in Plainview Memorial Park, Plainview, TX. Recently, FindAGraver, Sandy Lindeman, posted a photo of this marker that confirms his identity. He never used the name Milton. It was difficult to prove that Wayne Clark in Plainview's 1930 census was Milton Wayne Clark until now. Thank you Sandy.
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Lubbock Morning Avalanche - Lubbock, TX, Friday, January 22, 1943. p.9
Washington, Jan 21 - Cited For Midway Bravery
Decoration of 12 Officer and four enlisted men of the navy for heroic conduct was announced by the navy department today. Enlisted men were awarded the air medal for heroism in the battle of Midway included Milton W. Clark, 22, aviation machinists mate 2nd class, listed as missing in action. He is the son of Mrs. Ida Clark, 619 Dale* Street, Plainview, Texas.
*Note: Address was 619 Date St and his mother's name was Ada vice Ida.
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The Enterprise Presidential Unit Citation reads:
For consistently outstanding performance and distinguished achievement during repeated action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific war area, 7 December 1941, to 15 November 1942. Participating in nearly every major carrier engagement in the first year of the war, the Enterprise and her air group, exclusive of far-flung destruction of hostile shore installations throughout the battle area, did sink or damage on her own a total of 35 Japanese vessels and shot down a total of 185 Japanese aircraft. Her aggressive spirit and superb combat efficiency are fitting tribute to the officers and men who so gallantly established her as an ahead bulwark in the defense of the American nation.
Actions of the Enterprise mentioned in the citation include the Gilbert and Marshalls of 01 Feb 1942; Wake Island raid, 24 Feb 1942; Marcus Island raid, 04 Mar 1942; Battle of Midway, 4-6 Jun 1942; Occupation of Guadalcanal, 7-8 Aug 1942; Battle of Stewart Islands, 24 Aug 1942; Battle of Santa Cruz Islands, 26 Oct 1942; and Battle of Solomon Islands, 14-15 Nov 1942.
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His family also received a commemoration from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It reads: In grateful memory of Milton Wayne Clark, who died in the service of his country, SEA, Pacific Area, ATTACHED U.S.S. ENTERPRISE, 7 JUNE 1943 (Presumed). He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die that freedom might live and grow and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it, he lives -- in a way that humbles the undertakings of most men.
(Signed) Franklin D. Roosevelt,
President of the United States
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Task Force 16 Citation Recognizing its contribution to the Doolittle Raid, 18 April 1942
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Second World War, it is appropriate that we take time to reflect on the unique and daring accomplishments achieved early in the war by Task Force 16. Sailing westward under sealed orders in April 1942, only four months after the devastating raid on Pearl Harbor, Task Force 16, carrying sixteen Army B-25 bombers, proceeded into history. Facing adverse weather and under constant threat of discovery before bombers could be launched to strike the Japanese homeland, the crews of the ships and LTC Doolittle's bombers persevered. On 18 April 1942 at 14:45, perseverance produced success as radio broadcasts from Japan confirmed the success of the raids. These raids were an enormous boost to the morale of the American people in those early and dark days of the war and a harbinger of the future for the Japanese High Command that had so foolishly awakened "The Sleeping Giant." These exploits, which so inspired the service men and women and the nation live on today and are remembered when the necessity of success against all odds is required.
(Signed) John H.Dalton
Secretary of the Navy
15 May 1995
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Combat Action Ribbon (CR) note:
None of the Navy/Marine flight crews in the Battle of Midway were eligible for or were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (CR). See Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (SECNAVINST M-1650.1 of 16 Aug 2019, Appendix 2C.1.c (3) Amplifying Guidance). It reads in part, "The CR will not be awarded in connection with aerial flight, . . . " The CR was established in 1969 and made retroactive to 07 Dec 1941. According to the Awards Manual, when deemed appropriate, the award for aerial combat is the Air Medal.
Compiler's note: I believe that Clark should have be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight during the Marshall Island raid when he shot down one and probably two enemy fighter planes.
(bio #187 compiled by Gerry Lawton [G47/GML470])
Clark's Military Hall of Honor ID: #89894
Gravesite Details
Entered the service from Texas.
Family Members
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