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{{Short description|U.S. Navy admiral (1910–1979)}}
{{Infobox military person
{{Infobox military person
| name = Gordon Pai{{okina}}ea Chung-Hoon
| name = Gordon Pai{{okina}}ea Chung-Hoon
| birth_date = {{birth date|1910|7|25}}
| birth_date = {{birth date|1910|7|25}}
| death_date = {{death date and age|1979|7|24|1910|7|25}}
| death_date = {{death date and age|1979|7|24|1910|7|25}}
| birth_place = [[Honolulu, Hawaii]], United States
| birth_place = [[Honolulu, Hawaii|Honolulu]], [[Territory of Hawaii]], U.S.
| death_place = Honolulu, Hawaii, United States
| death_place = Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.
| placeofburial =
| placeofburial = [[National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific]]
| placeofburial_label = Place of burial
| placeofburial_label = Place of burial
| image = Adm chunghoon portrait.jpg
| image = File:Gordon Chung-Hoon.jpg
| caption = Admiral Chung-Hoon
| caption = Navy portrait as a rear admiral
| nickname =
| nickname =
| allegiance = {{flag|United States of America}}
| allegiance = {{flag|United States of America}}
| branch = {{flag|United States Navy}}
| branch = {{flag|United States Navy}}
| branch_label = Branch
| serviceyears = 1934–1959
| serviceyears = 1934–1959
| rank = [[File:US-O8 insignia.svg|28px]] [[Rear admiral (United States)|Rear Admiral]]
| rank = [[File:US-O8 insignia.svg|28px]] [[Rear admiral (United States)|Rear Admiral]]
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}}
}}
| unit =
| unit =
| battles = [[World War II]]
| battles = [[World War II]], [[Korean War]]
| awards = [[Navy Cross (United States)|Navy Cross]]<br/>[[Silver Star]]
| awards = [[File:Navy Cross ribbon.svg|35 px]] [[Navy Cross]]<br/>[[File:Silver Star Medal ribbon.svg|35 px]][[Silver Star]]
| laterwork = Hawaii Director of Agriculture and Conservation
| laterwork = Hawaii Director of Agriculture and Conservation
| alma_mater = [[United States Naval Academy]]
| spouse = {{plainlist|
| spouse = {{plainlist|
*{{marriage |Anita Corson |1938 |1950 |end=d.}}
*{{marriage |Anita Corson |1938 |1950 |end=d.}}
*{{marriage |Ola Luckey |1952 |1960 |end=d.}}
*{{marriage |Ola Luckey |1952 |1960 |end=d.}}
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}}
}}
}}
}}
{{Chinese|t=鍾雲|s=|p=Zhōng Yún|w=}}
'''Gordon Pai{{okina}}ea Chung-Hoon'''<ref name="HA"/> (July 25, 1910 &ndash; July 24, 1979) was an admiral in the [[United States Navy]], who served during [[World War II]] and was the first [[Asian American]] [[flag officer]]. He received the [[Navy Cross Medal|Navy Cross]] and [[Silver Star]] for conspicuous gallantry and extraordinary heroism as commanding officer of {{USS|Sigsbee|DD-502|6}} from May 1944 to October 1945.<ref name="HA">{{Cite news |title=USS Chung-Hoon at home in Pearl Harbor |author=William Cole |newspaper=Honolulu Advertiser |date=September 16, 2004 |url=http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Sep/16/ln/ln05a.html |accessdate=October 22, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928063325/http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Sep/16/ln/ln05a.html# |archive-date=2012-09-28 |url-status=live }}</ref>
'''Gordon Pai{{okina}}ea Chung-Hoon''' (July 25, 1910 &ndash; July 24, 1979) was an admiral in the [[United States Navy]], who served during [[World War II]] and was the first [[Asian American]] [[flag officer]]. He received the [[Navy Cross]] and [[Silver Star]] for conspicuous gallantry and extraordinary heroism as commanding officer of {{USS|Sigsbee|DD-502|6}} from May 1944 to October 1945.<ref name="HA">{{Cite news |title=USS Chung-Hoon at home in Pearl Harbor |author=William Cole |newspaper=Honolulu Advertiser |date=September 16, 2004 |url=http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Sep/16/ln/ln05a.html |access-date=October 22, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928063325/http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Sep/16/ln/ln05a.html |archive-date=2012-09-28 |url-status=live }}</ref>


==Early life==
==Early life==


He was born in [[Honolulu, Hawaii]], on July 25, 1910. His father, William Chung-Hoon Jr., a Chinese-English-Hawaiian,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=15209 |title=Chung-Hoon Commissioned |author=[[Journalist (US Navy)|JO]][[Petty Officer First Class|1]] Daniel J. Calderón |date=20 September 2004 |work=Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs |publisher=[[United States Navy]] |accessdate=19 June 2011 |quote=The commissioning ceremony paid homage to Adm. Chung-Hoon's combined Chinese and Hawaiian ancestry. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070913124041/https://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=15209# |archive-date=2007-09-13 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=USS Chung-Hoon at home in Pearl Harbor |author=William Cole |url=http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Sep/16/ln/ln05a.html |newspaper=The Honolulu Advertiser |date=16 September 2004 |accessdate=19 June 2011 |quote=Chinese, Hawaiian and English ancestry. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928063325/http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Sep/16/ln/ln05a.html# |archive-date=2012-09-28 |url-status=live }}</ref> was a county treasurer and his mother Agnes Punana, a Hawaiian, was a member of the [[Kaʻahumanu Society]]. Chung-Hoon was the fourth of five children born to his family.<ref>"[http://goldsea.com/Personalities/Heroes/heroes2.html Rear Admiral Gordon P. Chung-Hoon] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150922073452/http://goldsea.com/Personalities/Heroes/heroes2.html# |date=2015-09-22 }}" from Asian-American WAR Heroes, accessed March 5, 2016.</ref> He graduated from [[Punahou School]] in 1929.
He was born in [[Honolulu, Hawaii]], on July 25, 1910. His father, William Chung-Hoon Jr., was a county treasurer and his mother Agnes Punana, a Hawaiian, was a member of the [[Kaʻahumanu Society]]. Chung-Hoon was the fourth of five children born to his family.<ref>"[http://goldsea.com/Personalities/Heroes/heroes2.html Rear Admiral Gordon P. Chung-Hoon] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150922073452/http://goldsea.com/Personalities/Heroes/heroes2.html# |date=2015-09-22 }}" from Asian-American WAR Heroes, accessed March 5, 2016.</ref> He graduated from [[Punahou School]] in 1929.


==Military career==
==Military career==
Chung-Hoon attended the [[United States Naval Academy]] and graduated in May 1934, becoming the first Asian American, U.S. citizen graduate of the academy.<ref>{{cite book |title=Sea change at Annapolis: the United States Naval Academy, 1949-2000, Volume 415 |last=Gelfand |first=H. Michael |authorlink= |coauthors= |year=2006 |publisher=UNC Press |location= |isbn=0-8078-3047-X |page=48 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=dJDHptZWHUUC&lpg=PA48&dq=first%20filipino%20graduate%20usna&pg=PA48#v=onepage&q=first%20filipino%20graduate%20usna&f=false |accessdate=September 2, 2009}}</ref> While a student he gained national prominence as the football team's halfback and punter, and in 1934 starred on the team that broke an 11-year winless streak against the [[United States Military Academy|Army]] team.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://navysports.com/news/2008/10/19/Navy_To_Play_Its_1200th_Football_Game_Saturday_Against_SMU.aspx|title=Navy To Play Its 1200th Football Game Saturday Against SMU|author=Jack Clary|date=October 19, 2008|work=Navysports.com|publisher=CBS Interactive|accessdate=October 22, 2009}}</ref> In 1958 ''[[Sports Illustrated]]'''s Silver Anniversary All-American issue featured Chung-Hoon as one of its 1933 football stars.<ref name=":1" />
Chung-Hoon attended the [[United States Naval Academy]] and graduated in May 1934, becoming the first Asian American graduate of the academy.<ref>{{cite book |title=Sea change at Annapolis: the United States Naval Academy, 1949-2000, Volume 415 |last=Gelfand |first=H. Michael |year=2006 |publisher=UNC Press |isbn=0-8078-3047-X |page=48 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=dJDHptZWHUUC&q=first+filipino+graduate+usna&pg=PA48 |access-date=September 2, 2009}}</ref> While a student he gained national prominence as the football team's halfback and punter, and in 1934 starred on the team that broke an 11-year winless streak against the [[United States Military Academy|Army]] team.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://navysports.com/news/2008/10/19/Navy_To_Play_Its_1200th_Football_Game_Saturday_Against_SMU.aspx|title=Navy To Play Its 1200th Football Game Saturday Against SMU|author=Jack Clary|date=October 19, 2008|work=Navysports.com|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=October 22, 2009}}</ref> In 1958 ''[[Sports Illustrated]]'''s Silver Anniversary All-American issue featured Chung-Hoon as one of its 1933 football stars.<ref name=":1" />


After graduation Chung-Hoon was assigned to the cruiser {{USS|Indianapolis|CA-35|6}} as an [[Ensign (rank)|ensign]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015025949143;view=1up;seq=1|title=Navy directory. Officers of the United States Navy and Marine Corps, also including officers of the U.S. Naval Reserve Force, Marine Corps Reserve, Coast ... Apr 1934-Jan 1936.|website=HathiTrust|page=16|language=en|access-date=2018-11-11}}</ref> As of January 1937 he was serving as an ensign aboard the destroyer {{USS|Montgomery|DD-121|6}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015025949127;view=1up;seq=3|title=Navy directory. Officers of the United States Navy and Marine Corps, also including officers of the U.S. Naval Reserve Force, Marine Corps Reserve, Coast ... July 1936-July 1938.|website=HathiTrust|page=17|language=en|access-date=2018-11-11}}</ref> He was a [[lieutenant (junior grade)]] on {{USS|Dent}} as of January 1939.<ref>1938 US Navy Directory, Active List, page 17.</ref>
After graduation Chung-Hoon was assigned to the cruiser {{USS|Indianapolis|CA-35|6}} as an [[Ensign (rank)|ensign]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015025949143;view=1up;seq=1|title=Navy directory. Officers of the United States Navy and Marine Corps, also including officers of the U.S. Naval Reserve Force, Marine Corps Reserve, Coast ... Apr 1934-Jan 1936.|website=HathiTrust|page=16|language=en|access-date=2018-11-11}}</ref> As of January 1937 he was serving as an ensign aboard the destroyer {{USS|Montgomery|DD-121|6}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015025949127;view=1up;seq=3|title=Navy directory. Officers of the United States Navy and Marine Corps, also including officers of the U.S. Naval Reserve Force, Marine Corps Reserve, Coast ... July 1936-July 1938.|website=HathiTrust|page=17|language=en|access-date=2018-11-11}}</ref> He was a [[lieutenant (junior grade)]] on {{USS|Dent}} as of January 1939.<ref>1938 US Navy Directory, Active List, page 17.</ref>


===World War II===
===World War II===


Chung-Hoon served on the battleship {{USS|Arizona|BB-39|6}} as a [[Lieutenant (navy)|lieutenant]],<ref>"[http://www.navyhistory.org/2013/12/book-review-the-men-of-the-arizona-bb-39-revised-edition/ BOOK REVIEW – The Men of the Arizona (BB-39)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307001515/http://www.navyhistory.org/2013/12/book-review-the-men-of-the-arizona-bb-39-revised-edition/# |date=2016-03-07 }}" reviewed by LCdr. Jason P. Grower, USN, Naval Historical Foundation, Dec. 6, 2016.</ref> but was in [[Honolulu]] on a weekend pass during the [[attack on Pearl Harbor]]. Chung-Hoon heard the attack from Honolulu and attempted to return to his ship but was delayed by roadblocks and traffic jams.<ref>''[https://books.google.com/books?id=48-qDw9hvB8C&lpg=PA1911&dq=%22Gordon%20Chung-Hoon%22&pg=PA1911#v=onepage&q=%22Gordon%20Chung-Hoon%22&f=false Duty, Honor, Victory: America's Athletes in World War II]'' by Gary L. Bloomfield, Globe Pequot, 2004, page 20.</ref> By the time he reached the ''Arizona'' the ship had already exploded and sunk.
Chung-Hoon served on the battleship {{USS|Arizona|BB-39|6}} as a [[Lieutenant (navy)|lieutenant]],<ref>"[http://www.navyhistory.org/2013/12/book-review-the-men-of-the-arizona-bb-39-revised-edition/ BOOK REVIEW – The Men of the Arizona (BB-39)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307001515/http://www.navyhistory.org/2013/12/book-review-the-men-of-the-arizona-bb-39-revised-edition/# |date=2016-03-07 }}" reviewed by LCdr. Jason P. Grower, USN, Naval Historical Foundation, Dec. 6, 2016.</ref> but was in [[Honolulu]] on a weekend pass during the [[attack on Pearl Harbor]]. Chung-Hoon heard the attack from Honolulu and attempted to return to his ship but was delayed by roadblocks and traffic jams.<ref>''[https://books.google.com/books?id=48-qDw9hvB8C&dq=%22Gordon+Chung-Hoon%22&pg=PA1911 Duty, Honor, Victory: America's Athletes in World War II]'' by Gary L. Bloomfield, Globe Pequot, 2004, page 20.</ref> By the time he reached the ''Arizona'' the ship had already exploded and sunk.


After the sinking of ''Arizona'', Chung-Hoon served as a naval liaison officer with [[coastal artillery]] before becoming [[executive officer]] on a destroyer in 1942, working convoy details in the Atlantic.<ref name="Chung-Hoon 1945">"Chung-Hoon, Former Grid Great at Academy Still Winning Letters on Pacific Navy Team" by Laurie Johnston, The Honolulu Advertiser, 1945.</ref> He also served on board the cruiser {{USS|Honolulu|CL-48|6}}.<ref name="web.archive.org">"[https://web.archive.org/web/20030205072819/http://sjkids.scottsburg.com/Testimony%20to%20Chung-Hoon.htm TESTIMONIAL TO GORDAN PAEIA CHUNG-HOON, Captain USS SIGSBEE 14 May 1944 to 19 June 1945]" by John R. Williams, Signalman Second Class, USS Sigbee website, accessed 7/25/16.</ref>
After the sinking of ''Arizona'', Chung-Hoon served as a naval liaison officer with [[coastal artillery]] before becoming [[executive officer]] on a destroyer in 1942, working convoy details in the Atlantic.<ref name="Chung-Hoon 1945">"Chung-Hoon, Former Grid Great at Academy Still Winning Letters on Pacific Navy Team" by Laurie Johnston, The Honolulu Advertiser, 1945.</ref> He also served on board the cruiser {{USS|Honolulu|CL-48|6}}.<ref name="web.archive.org">"[https://web.archive.org/web/20030205072819/http://sjkids.scottsburg.com/Testimony%20to%20Chung-Hoon.htm TESTIMONIAL TO GORDAN PAEIA CHUNG-HOON, Captain USS SIGSBEE 14 May 1944 to 19 June 1945]" by John R. Williams, Signalman Second Class, USS Sigbee website, accessed 7/25/16.</ref>


From May 1944 to October 1945 Chung-Hoon commanded the destroyer {{USS|Sigsbee|DD-502|6}}. In the spring of 1945, ''Sigsbee'' assisted in the destruction of 20 enemy planes while screening an [[aircraft carrier]] strike force off the [[Japan]]ese island of [[Kyūshū]]. On April 14, 1945, while on radar picket station off [[Okinawa]], a [[kamikaze]] crashed into ''Sigsbee'', reducing her [[starboard]] engine to {{convert|5|kn|lk=in|spell=in}} and knocking out the ship's [[Port (nautical)|port]] engine and steering control. Despite the damage, then [[Commander (United States)|Commander]] Chung-Hoon kept his antiaircraft batteries delivering "prolonged and effective fire" against the continuing Japanese air attack while simultaneously directing the damage control efforts that allowed ''Sigsbee'' to make port under her own power.<ref name="HA"/>
From May 1944 to October 1945 Chung-Hoon commanded the destroyer {{USS|Sigsbee|DD-502|6}}. In the spring of 1945, ''Sigsbee'' assisted in the destruction of 20 enemy planes while screening an [[aircraft carrier]] strike force off the [[Japan]]ese island of [[Kyūshū]]. On April 14, 1945, while on radar picket station off [[Okinawa Prefecture|Okinawa]], a [[kamikaze]] crashed into ''Sigsbee'', reducing her [[starboard]] engine to {{convert|5|kn|lk=in|spell=in}} and knocking out the ship's [[Port (nautical)|port]] engine and steering control. Despite the damage, then [[Commander (United States)|Commander]] Chung-Hoon kept his antiaircraft batteries delivering "prolonged and effective fire" against the continuing Japanese air attack while simultaneously directing the damage control efforts that allowed ''Sigsbee'' to make port under her own power.<ref name="HA"/>


The damage had been severe enough that Admiral [[William Halsey, Jr.]] told Chung-Hoon to scuttle the ship. However, Chung-Hoon declined to do so, telling the admiral "No, I have kids on here that can't swim and I'm not putting them in the water. I'll take her back."<ref>"[http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Sep/16/ln/ln05a.html USS Chung-Hoon at home in Pearl Harbor] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928063325/http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Sep/16/ln/ln05a.html# |date=2012-09-28 }}" by William Cole, The Honolulu Advertiser, September 16, 2004.</ref>
The damage had been severe enough that Admiral [[William Halsey, Jr.]] told Chung-Hoon to scuttle the ship. However, Chung-Hoon declined to do so, telling the admiral "No, I have kids on here that can't swim and I'm not putting them in the water. I'll take her back."<ref>"[http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Sep/16/ln/ln05a.html USS Chung-Hoon at home in Pearl Harbor] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928063325/http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Sep/16/ln/ln05a.html# |date=2012-09-28 }}" by William Cole, The Honolulu Advertiser, September 16, 2004.</ref>


The next day Chung-Hoon led a burial at sea for the dead. One crewmate said of Chung-Hoon during the burial, "I often remember that the only man tough enough not to duck, was also the only man tender enough to cry."<ref name="web.archive.org"/>
The next day Chung-Hoon led a [[burial at sea]] for the dead. One crewmate said of Chung-Hoon during the burial, "I often remember that the only man tough enough not to duck, was also the only man tender enough to cry."<ref name="web.archive.org"/>


For Chung-Hoon's service aboard ''Sigsbee'' he received the [[Navy Cross Medal|Navy Cross]] and the [[Silver Star]] for conspicuous gallantry and extraordinary heroism.<ref name="HA"/>
For Chung-Hoon's service aboard ''Sigsbee'' he received the [[Navy Cross]] and the [[Silver Star]] for conspicuous gallantry and extraordinary heroism.<ref name="HA"/>


During the war, two of Chung-Hoon's brothers served in the army in the Pacific theater.<ref name="Chung-Hoon 1945"/>
During the war, two of Chung-Hoon's brothers served in the army in the Pacific theater.<ref name="Chung-Hoon 1945"/>


===Postwar ===
===Postwar ===
[[File:Gordon Chung Hoon 2.jpg|thumb|Chung-Hoon as a young officer]]
After ''Sigsbee'' inactivated following the end of the war, Chung-Hoon was transferred to Pearl Harbor in November as officer in charge of the Special Activities Division of [[Service Force Pacific|Service Force, Pacific Fleet]], responsible for various administrative duties.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/258804718/?terms=%22chung-hoon%22|title=Cmdr. Gordon Chung-Hoon Now On Duty At Pearl Harbor|last=|first=|date=21 November 1945|work=Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|page=2|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref>
After ''Sigsbee'' was inactivated following the end of the war, Chung-Hoon was transferred to Pearl Harbor in November as officer in charge of the Special Activities Division of [[Service Force Pacific|Service Force, Pacific Fleet]], responsible for various administrative duties.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/258804718/?terms=%22chung-hoon%22|title=Cmdr. Gordon Chung-Hoon Now On Duty At Pearl Harbor|date=21 November 1945|work=Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|page=2|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref>


From August 16, 1950, to March 7, 1952, Chung-Hoon commanded the destroyer {{USS|John W. Thomason}} during the [[Korean War]]. Under Chung-Hoon's command the destroyer operated as part of the [[7th Fleet]], patrolling off the coast of Korea and taking part in gun bombardments.
From August 16, 1950, to March 7, 1952, Chung-Hoon commanded the destroyer {{USS|John W. Thomason}} during the [[Korean War]]. Under Chung-Hoon's command the destroyer operated as part of the [[7th Fleet]], patrolling off the coast of Korea and taking part in gun bombardments.


He was promoted to the rank of [[Captain (United States O-6)|captain]] on 1 July 1953.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oxAXAQAAIAAJ&q=%22chung-hoon%22+and+%22radm%22&dq=%22chung-hoon%22+and+%22radm%22&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiU6u2-s8zeAhXm64MKHZ3sAd8Q6AEIRTAE|title=Register of Retired Commissioned and Warrant Officers, Regular and Reserve, of the United States Navy and Marine Corps|last=|first=|date=1964|publisher=U.S. Government Printing Office|year=|isbn=|location=|pages=65|language=en}}</ref>
He was promoted to the rank of [[Captain (United States O-6)|captain]] on 1 July 1953.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oxAXAQAAIAAJ&q=%22chung-hoon%22+and+%22radm%22|title=Register of Retired Commissioned and Warrant Officers, Regular and Reserve, of the United States Navy and Marine Corps|date=1964|publisher=U.S. Government Printing Office|pages=65|language=en}}</ref>


He served as the Commanding Officer of Afloat Training Group Middle Pacific from March to June of 1954, where he directed the training and certification of Hawaii based ships.
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Chung-Hoon served as captain of the [[guided missile]] testing ship {{USS|Norton Sound|AVM-1|6}} between July 1956<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/259898973/|title=Chung-Hoon Captain of Missile Ship|last=|first=|date=14 August 1956|work=The Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|page=A10|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> and August 1957. He was subsequently transferred to the [[Office of the Chief of Naval Operations]] in Washington, D.C.,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/31914653/?terms=%22chung-hoon%22%2Band%2B%22norton%2Bsound%22|title=Capt. Arthur R. Galla Takes over Norton Sound|last=|first=|date=2 August 1957|work=Oxnard Press-Courier|access-date=11 November 2018|page=1|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> his last post.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/24288200/?terms=%22chung%2Bhoon%22%2Band%2B%22chief%2Bof%2Bnaval%2Boperations%22|title=Adm. Chung-Hoon Retires to Hawaii|last=|first=|date=10 December 1959|work=Independent|access-date=11 November 2018|page=12|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> Chung-Hoon retired in October 1959 and was promoted to [[Rear admiral (United States)|rear admiral]] upon retirement, making him the first [[Asian Americans|Asian American]] [[flag officer]] of the United States Navy.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/258156668/?terms=%22chung+hoon%22+and+%22rear+admiral%22|title=Best Wishes|last=|first=|date=13 January 1961|work=Newspapers.com|access-date=2018-11-11|page=14|language=en}}</ref>

⚫
Chung-Hoon served as captain of the [[guided missile]] testing ship {{USS|Norton Sound|AVM-1|6}} between July 1956<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/259898973/|title=Chung-Hoon Captain of Missile Ship|date=14 August 1956|work=The Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|page=A10|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> and August 1957. He was subsequently transferred to the [[Office of the Chief of Naval Operations]] in Washington, D.C.,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/31914653/?terms=%22chung-hoon%22%2Band%2B%22norton%2Bsound%22|title=Capt. Arthur R. Galla Takes over Norton Sound|date=2 August 1957|work=Oxnard Press-Courier|access-date=11 November 2018|page=1|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> his last post.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/24288200/?terms=%22chung%2Bhoon%22%2Band%2B%22chief%2Bof%2Bnaval%2Boperations%22|title=Adm. Chung-Hoon Retires to Hawaii|date=10 December 1959|work=Independent|access-date=11 November 2018|page=12|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> Chung-Hoon retired in October 1959 and was promoted to [[Rear admiral (United States)|rear admiral]] [[tombstone promotion|upon retirement]], making him the first [[Asian Americans|Asian American]] [[flag officer]] of the United States Navy.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/258156668/?terms=%22chung+hoon%22+and+%22rear+admiral%22|title=Best Wishes|date=13 January 1961|work=Newspapers.com|access-date=2018-11-11|page=14|language=en}}</ref>


==Later life and legacy==
==Later life and legacy==
[[File:Adm chunghoon portrait.jpg|thumb|230x230px|Portrait of Chung-Hoon]]
He was appointed to be the director of the [[Government of Hawaii|Hawaii Department of Agriculture]] by the first Governor of the State of Hawaii, [[William F. Quinn]], and held that position between January 1961 and June 1963. Chung-Hoon subsequently worked as a [[realtor]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/270969523/?terms=%22chung-hoon%22%2Band%2B%22state%2Bsenate%22|title=Chung-Hoon in race for State Senate|last=|first=|date=21 July 1966|work=Honolulu Star-Bulletin|access-date=11 November 2018|page=A-13|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> He made a foray into politics by running as a [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] for one of the four seats representing the Hawaii 7th [[Hawaii Senate|State Senate]] District in 1966, but finished fifth in the [[Primary elections in the United States|primary]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/260566561/?terms=%22chung-hoon%22%2Band%2B%22state%2Bsenate%22|title=Hot Fights Loom In Senate Races|last=Engledow|first=Ed|date=3 October 1966|work=Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|page=A-1A|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> Chung-Hoon died on July 24, 1979<ref>{{Cite news|title=Chung-Hoon arrives today |author=Lt. j.g. James McLeod |newspaper=Hawaiʻi Navy News |date=September 10, 2004 |url=https://www.cnic.navy.mil/navycni/groups/public/@pub/@hawaii/documents/document/cnip_011873.pdf |accessdate=October 22, 2009 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029184426/https://www.cnic.navy.mil/navycni/groups/public/%40pub/%40hawaii/documents/document/cnip_011873.pdf |archivedate=October 29, 2013 }}</ref> at [[Tripler Army Medical Center]] in Honolulu.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/271812196/?terms=%22chung-hoon%22|title=Adm. Gordon Chung-Hoon: Naval Hero, Civil Servant|last=|first=|date=26 July 1979|work=Honolulu Star-Bulletin|access-date=11 November 2018|publisher=Newspapers.com|url-access=subscription}}</ref>
He was appointed to be the director of the [[Government of Hawaii|Hawaii Department of Agriculture]] by the first Governor of the State of Hawaii, [[William F. Quinn]], and held that position between January 1961 and June 1963. Chung-Hoon subsequently worked as a [[Realtor]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/270969523/?terms=%22chung-hoon%22%2Band%2B%22state%2Bsenate%22|title=Chung-Hoon in race for State Senate|date=21 July 1966|work=Honolulu Star-Bulletin|access-date=11 November 2018|page=A-13|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> He made a foray into politics by running as a [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] for one of the four seats representing the Hawaii 7th [[Hawaii Senate|State Senate]] District in 1966, but finished fifth in the [[Primary elections in the United States|primary]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/260566561/?terms=%22chung-hoon%22%2Band%2B%22state%2Bsenate%22|title=Hot Fights Loom In Senate Races|last=Engledow|first=Ed|date=3 October 1966|work=Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|page=A-1A|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> Chung-Hoon died on July 24, 1979,<ref>{{Cite news|title=Chung-Hoon arrives today |author=Lt. j.g. James McLeod |newspaper=Hawaiʻi Navy News |date=September 10, 2004 |url=https://www.cnic.navy.mil/navycni/groups/public/@pub/@hawaii/documents/document/cnip_011873.pdf |access-date=October 22, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029184426/https://www.cnic.navy.mil/navycni/groups/public/%40pub/%40hawaii/documents/document/cnip_011873.pdf |archive-date=October 29, 2013 }}</ref> at [[Tripler Army Medical Center]] in Honolulu.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/271812196/?terms=%22chung-hoon%22|title=Adm. Gordon Chung-Hoon: Naval Hero, Civil Servant|date=26 July 1979|work=Honolulu Star-Bulletin|access-date=11 November 2018|publisher=Newspapers.com|url-access=subscription}}</ref>


The {{sclass-|Arleigh Burke|destroyer|1}} {{USS|Chung-Hoon|DDG-93|6}}, commissioned in 2004, is named for him.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2004/09/mil-040920-nns01.htm#|title=Chung-Hoon Commissioned|author=Calderón|first=Daniel J.|date=September 20, 2004|newspaper=Navy NewsStand|accessdate=July 30, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180731123528/https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2004/09/mil-040920-nns01.htm#|archive-date=2018-07-31|url-status=live}}</ref>
The {{Sclass|Arleigh Burke|destroyer|1}} {{USS|Chung-Hoon|DDG-93|6}}, commissioned in 2004, is named for him.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2004/09/mil-040920-nns01.htm|title=Chung-Hoon Commissioned|author=Calderón|first=Daniel J.|date=September 20, 2004|newspaper=Navy NewsStand|access-date=July 30, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180731123528/https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2004/09/mil-040920-nns01.htm|archive-date=2018-07-31|url-status=live}}</ref>


== Personal life ==
== Personal life ==
Chung-Hoon first married Anita Corson while serving aboard ''Dent'' in December 1938;<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/275981148/?terms=%22married%22%2Band%2B%22chung-hoon%22|title=Chung Hoon-Corson Rites Held Thursday in Twilight|last=|first=|date=10 December 1938|work=Honolulu Star-Bulletin|access-date=11 November 2018|page=3 (Society)|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> she died of cancer in 1950.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/280911757/?terms=%22corson%22%2Band%2B%22chung-hoon%22|title=Anita Chung-Hoon Dies at Tripler; Funeral Friday|last=|first=|date=4 May 1950|work=Honolulu Star-Bulletin|access-date=11 November 2018|page=6|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> He married Ola Luckey in 1952; she died of cancer in April 1960, months after they had returned to Honolulu following his retirement;<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/259232191/?terms=%22ola%22%2Band%2B%22chung-hoon%22|title=Mrs. Ola Chung-Hoon Dies; Services Saturday|last=|first=|date=28 April 1960|work=Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|page=C4|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> Chung-Hoon retired in order to spend more time with his wife.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/268488109|title=Missile destroyer to honor officer|last=Waite|first=David|date=12 October 2000|work=Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|page=|pages=B1, B2|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> He married his third wife, travel consultant Jean Carlisle (died 2001), in January 1961, adopting her son, Perry White; Chung-Hoon was otherwise childless.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2001/Apr/21/ln/ln27aobituaries.html|title=Obituaries|date=21 April 2001|work=Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010717232229/http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2001/Apr/21/ln/ln27aobituaries.html#|archive-date=2001-07-17|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/269968485/?terms=%22jean%22%2Band%2B%22chung-hoon%22|title=Mrs. Jean J. Carlisle Married To Rear Admiral Chung-Hoon|last=|first=|date=1 February 1961|work=Honolulu Star-Bulletin|access-date=11 November 2018|page=20|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref>
Chung-Hoon first married Anita Corson while serving aboard ''Dent'' in December 1938;<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/275981148/?terms=%22married%22%2Band%2B%22chung-hoon%22|title=Chung Hoon-Corson Rites Held Thursday in Twilight|date=10 December 1938|work=Honolulu Star-Bulletin|access-date=11 November 2018|page=3 (Society)|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> she died of cancer in 1950.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/280911757/?terms=%22corson%22%2Band%2B%22chung-hoon%22|title=Anita Chung-Hoon Dies at Tripler; Funeral Friday|date=4 May 1950|work=Honolulu Star-Bulletin|access-date=11 November 2018|page=6|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> He married Ola Luckey in 1952, and later retired in order to spend more time with her.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/268488109|title=Missile destroyer to honor officer|last=Waite|first=David|date=12 October 2000|work=Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|pages=B1, B2|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> Luckey died of cancer in April 1960, months after they had returned to Honolulu following his retirement.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/259232191/?terms=%22ola%22%2Band%2B%22chung-hoon%22|title=Mrs. Ola Chung-Hoon Dies; Services Saturday|date=28 April 1960|work=Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|page=C4|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> He married his third wife, travel consultant Jean Carlisle (died 2001), in January 1961, adopting her son, Perry White; Chung-Hoon was otherwise childless.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2001/Apr/21/ln/ln27aobituaries.html|title=Obituaries|date=21 April 2001|work=Honolulu Advertiser|access-date=11 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010717232229/http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2001/Apr/21/ln/ln27aobituaries.html|archive-date=2001-07-17|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/269968485/?terms=%22jean%22%2Band%2B%22chung-hoon%22|title=Mrs. Jean J. Carlisle Married To Rear Admiral Chung-Hoon|date=1 February 1961|work=Honolulu Star-Bulletin|access-date=11 November 2018|page=20|url-access=subscription|via=Newspapers.com}}</ref>


==Navy Cross citation==
==Navy Cross citation==


{{quote|The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Gordon Paiea Chung-Hoon, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of this profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. SIGSBEE (DD-502), a unit of an Advanced Picket Group, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 14 April 1945. Although his ship suffered major damage when struck by an enemy plane and all power was lost, Commander Chung-Hoon coolly carried out defensive maneuvers and directed his anti-aircraft batteries in delivering prolonged and effective fire against the continued heavy enemy air attack. Afterwards, he supervised damage-control procedure which resulted in his ship being made sea-worthy for a safe return to port under its own restored power. Commander Chung-Hoon's gallant fighting spirit, courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.<ref>"[http://valor.militarytimes.com/recipient.php?recipientid=20290 Hall of Valor for Gordon Paiea Chung-Hoon,] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306040230/http://valor.militarytimes.com/recipient.php?recipientid=20290# |date=2016-03-06 }}" Military Times, accessed March 5, 2016.</ref>}}
{{blockquote|The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Gordon Paiea Chung-Hoon, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of this profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. SIGSBEE (DD-502), a unit of an Advanced Picket Group, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 14 April 1945. Although his ship suffered major damage when struck by an enemy plane and all power was lost, Commander Chung-Hoon coolly carried out defensive maneuvers and directed his anti-aircraft batteries in delivering prolonged and effective fire against the continued heavy enemy air attack. Afterwards, he supervised damage-control procedure which resulted in his ship being made sea-worthy for a safe return to port under its own restored power. Commander Chung-Hoon's gallant fighting spirit, courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.<ref>"[http://valor.militarytimes.com/recipient.php?recipientid=20290 Hall of Valor for Gordon Paiea Chung-Hoon], {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306040230/http://valor.militarytimes.com/recipient.php?recipientid=20290# |date=2016-03-06 }}" Military Times, accessed March 5, 2016.</ref>}}


==References==
==References==
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==External links==
==External links==
* [http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/ddg93/Pages/history.aspx United States Navy biography]
* [http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/ddg93/Pages/history.aspx United States Navy biography] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150113035559/http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/ddg93/Pages/history.aspx |date=2015-01-13 }}
* [https://www.usni.org/node/2817 "Lest We Forget", By Lieutenant Commander Thomas J. Cutler & Arthur D. Baker III. Proceedings, November 2004]
* [https://www.usni.org/node/2817 "Lest We Forget", By Lieutenant Commander Thomas J. Cutler & Arthur D. Baker III. Proceedings, November 2004] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180731093742/https://www.usni.org/node/2817 |date=2018-07-31 }}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Chung-Hoon, Gordon Paiea}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Chung-Hoon, Gordon Paiea}}
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[[Category:American football punters]]
[[Category:American football punters]]
[[Category:American military personnel of Chinese descent]]
[[Category:American military personnel of Chinese descent]]
[[Category:American naval personnel of World War II]]
[[Category:United States Navy personnel of World War II]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Navy Cross (United States)]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Navy Cross (United States)]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Silver Star]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Silver Star]]
[[Category:Navy Midshipmen football players]]
[[Category:Navy Midshipmen football players]]
[[Category:Punahou School alumni]]
[[Category:United States Naval Academy alumni]]
[[Category:United States Naval Academy alumni]]
[[Category:United States Navy rear admirals]]
[[Category:United States Navy rear admirals]]
[[Category:Agriculture in Hawaii]]
[[Category:Agriculture in Hawaii]]
[[Category:People from Honolulu]]
[[Category:Military personnel from Honolulu]]
[[Category:American military personnel of Native Hawaiian descent]]
[[Category:American military personnel of Native Hawaiian descent]]
[[Category:American people of Chinese descent]]
[[Category:American people of English descent]]
[[Category:American people of English descent]]
[[Category:American naval personnel of the Korean War]]
[[Category:United States Navy personnel of the Korean War]]
[[Category:American real estate brokers]]
[[Category:American real estate brokers]]

Latest revision as of 08:49, 30 August 2024

Gordon Paiʻea Chung-Hoon
Navy portrait as a rear admiral
Born(1910-07-25)July 25, 1910
Honolulu, Territory of Hawaii, U.S.
DiedJuly 24, 1979(1979-07-24) (aged 68)
Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.
Place of burial
National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
Allegiance United States of America
Branch United States Navy
Years of service1934–1959
Rank Rear Admiral
Commands
Battles / warsWorld War II, Korean War
Awards Navy Cross
Silver Star
Alma materUnited States Naval Academy
Spouse(s)
Anita Corson
​
​
(m. 1938; died 1950)​
Ola Luckey
​
​
(m. 1952; died 1960)​
Jean Carlisle
​
(after 1961)​
Other workHawaii Director of Agriculture and Conservation
Gordon Chung-Hoon
Traditional Chinese鍾雲
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinZhōng Yún

Gordon Paiʻea Chung-Hoon (July 25, 1910 – July 24, 1979) was an admiral in the United States Navy, who served during World War II and was the first Asian American flag officer. He received the Navy Cross and Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and extraordinary heroism as commanding officer of USS Sigsbee from May 1944 to October 1945.[1]

Early life

[edit]

He was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, on July 25, 1910. His father, William Chung-Hoon Jr., was a county treasurer and his mother Agnes Punana, a Hawaiian, was a member of the Kaʻahumanu Society. Chung-Hoon was the fourth of five children born to his family.[2] He graduated from Punahou School in 1929.

Military career

[edit]

Chung-Hoon attended the United States Naval Academy and graduated in May 1934, becoming the first Asian American graduate of the academy.[3] While a student he gained national prominence as the football team's halfback and punter, and in 1934 starred on the team that broke an 11-year winless streak against the Army team.[4] In 1958 Sports Illustrated's Silver Anniversary All-American issue featured Chung-Hoon as one of its 1933 football stars.[5]

After graduation Chung-Hoon was assigned to the cruiser USS Indianapolis as an ensign.[6] As of January 1937 he was serving as an ensign aboard the destroyer USS Montgomery.[7] He was a lieutenant (junior grade) on USS Dent as of January 1939.[8]

World War II

[edit]

Chung-Hoon served on the battleship USS Arizona as a lieutenant,[9] but was in Honolulu on a weekend pass during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Chung-Hoon heard the attack from Honolulu and attempted to return to his ship but was delayed by roadblocks and traffic jams.[10] By the time he reached the Arizona the ship had already exploded and sunk.

After the sinking of Arizona, Chung-Hoon served as a naval liaison officer with coastal artillery before becoming executive officer on a destroyer in 1942, working convoy details in the Atlantic.[11] He also served on board the cruiser USS Honolulu.[12]

From May 1944 to October 1945 Chung-Hoon commanded the destroyer USS Sigsbee. In the spring of 1945, Sigsbee assisted in the destruction of 20 enemy planes while screening an aircraft carrier strike force off the Japanese island of Kyūshū. On April 14, 1945, while on radar picket station off Okinawa, a kamikaze crashed into Sigsbee, reducing her starboard engine to five knots (9.3 km/h; 5.8 mph) and knocking out the ship's port engine and steering control. Despite the damage, then Commander Chung-Hoon kept his antiaircraft batteries delivering "prolonged and effective fire" against the continuing Japanese air attack while simultaneously directing the damage control efforts that allowed Sigsbee to make port under her own power.[1]

The damage had been severe enough that Admiral William Halsey, Jr. told Chung-Hoon to scuttle the ship. However, Chung-Hoon declined to do so, telling the admiral "No, I have kids on here that can't swim and I'm not putting them in the water. I'll take her back."[13]

The next day Chung-Hoon led a burial at sea for the dead. One crewmate said of Chung-Hoon during the burial, "I often remember that the only man tough enough not to duck, was also the only man tender enough to cry."[12]

For Chung-Hoon's service aboard Sigsbee he received the Navy Cross and the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and extraordinary heroism.[1]

During the war, two of Chung-Hoon's brothers served in the army in the Pacific theater.[11]

Postwar

[edit]
Chung-Hoon as a young officer

After Sigsbee was inactivated following the end of the war, Chung-Hoon was transferred to Pearl Harbor in November as officer in charge of the Special Activities Division of Service Force, Pacific Fleet, responsible for various administrative duties.[14]

From August 16, 1950, to March 7, 1952, Chung-Hoon commanded the destroyer USS John W. Thomason during the Korean War. Under Chung-Hoon's command the destroyer operated as part of the 7th Fleet, patrolling off the coast of Korea and taking part in gun bombardments.

He was promoted to the rank of captain on 1 July 1953.[15]

He served as the Commanding Officer of Afloat Training Group Middle Pacific from March to June of 1954, where he directed the training and certification of Hawaii based ships.

Chung-Hoon served as captain of the guided missile testing ship USS Norton Sound between July 1956[16] and August 1957. He was subsequently transferred to the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations in Washington, D.C.,[17] his last post.[18] Chung-Hoon retired in October 1959 and was promoted to rear admiral upon retirement, making him the first Asian American flag officer of the United States Navy.[15][19]

Later life and legacy

[edit]
Portrait of Chung-Hoon

He was appointed to be the director of the Hawaii Department of Agriculture by the first Governor of the State of Hawaii, William F. Quinn, and held that position between January 1961 and June 1963. Chung-Hoon subsequently worked as a Realtor.[20] He made a foray into politics by running as a Republican for one of the four seats representing the Hawaii 7th State Senate District in 1966, but finished fifth in the primary.[21] Chung-Hoon died on July 24, 1979,[22] at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu.[5]

The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Chung-Hoon, commissioned in 2004, is named for him.[23]

Personal life

[edit]

Chung-Hoon first married Anita Corson while serving aboard Dent in December 1938;[24] she died of cancer in 1950.[25] He married Ola Luckey in 1952, and later retired in order to spend more time with her.[26] Luckey died of cancer in April 1960, months after they had returned to Honolulu following his retirement.[27] He married his third wife, travel consultant Jean Carlisle (died 2001), in January 1961, adopting her son, Perry White; Chung-Hoon was otherwise childless.[28][29]

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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Gordon Paiea Chung-Hoon, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of this profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. SIGSBEE (DD-502), a unit of an Advanced Picket Group, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 14 April 1945. Although his ship suffered major damage when struck by an enemy plane and all power was lost, Commander Chung-Hoon coolly carried out defensive maneuvers and directed his anti-aircraft batteries in delivering prolonged and effective fire against the continued heavy enemy air attack. Afterwards, he supervised damage-control procedure which resulted in his ship being made sea-worthy for a safe return to port under its own restored power. Commander Chung-Hoon's gallant fighting spirit, courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.[30]

References

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  1. ^ a b c William Cole (September 16, 2004). "USS Chung-Hoon at home in Pearl Harbor". Honolulu Advertiser. Archived from the original on 2012-09-28. Retrieved October 22, 2009.
  2. ^ "Rear Admiral Gordon P. Chung-Hoon Archived 2015-09-22 at the Wayback Machine" from Asian-American WAR Heroes, accessed March 5, 2016.
  3. ^ Gelfand, H. Michael (2006). Sea change at Annapolis: the United States Naval Academy, 1949-2000, Volume 415. UNC Press. p. 48. ISBN 0-8078-3047-X. Retrieved September 2, 2009.
  4. ^ Jack Clary (October 19, 2008). "Navy To Play Its 1200th Football Game Saturday Against SMU". Navysports.com. CBS Interactive. Retrieved October 22, 2009.
  5. ^ a b "Adm. Gordon Chung-Hoon: Naval Hero, Civil Servant". Honolulu Star-Bulletin. Newspapers.com. 26 July 1979. Retrieved 11 November 2018.
  6. ^ "Navy directory. Officers of the United States Navy and Marine Corps, also including officers of the U.S. Naval Reserve Force, Marine Corps Reserve, Coast ... Apr 1934-Jan 1936". HathiTrust. p. 16. Retrieved 2018-11-11.
  7. ^ "Navy directory. Officers of the United States Navy and Marine Corps, also including officers of the U.S. Naval Reserve Force, Marine Corps Reserve, Coast ... July 1936-July 1938". HathiTrust. p. 17. Retrieved 2018-11-11.
  8. ^ 1938 US Navy Directory, Active List, page 17.
  9. ^ "BOOK REVIEW – The Men of the Arizona (BB-39) Archived 2016-03-07 at the Wayback Machine" reviewed by LCdr. Jason P. Grower, USN, Naval Historical Foundation, Dec. 6, 2016.
  10. ^ Duty, Honor, Victory: America's Athletes in World War II by Gary L. Bloomfield, Globe Pequot, 2004, page 20.
  11. ^ a b "Chung-Hoon, Former Grid Great at Academy Still Winning Letters on Pacific Navy Team" by Laurie Johnston, The Honolulu Advertiser, 1945.
  12. ^ a b "TESTIMONIAL TO GORDAN PAEIA CHUNG-HOON, Captain USS SIGSBEE 14 May 1944 to 19 June 1945" by John R. Williams, Signalman Second Class, USS Sigbee website, accessed 7/25/16.
  13. ^ "USS Chung-Hoon at home in Pearl Harbor Archived 2012-09-28 at the Wayback Machine" by William Cole, The Honolulu Advertiser, September 16, 2004.
  14. ^ "Cmdr. Gordon Chung-Hoon Now On Duty At Pearl Harbor". Honolulu Advertiser. 21 November 1945. p. 2. Retrieved 11 November 2018 – via Newspapers.com.
  15. ^ a b Register of Retired Commissioned and Warrant Officers, Regular and Reserve, of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. U.S. Government Printing Office. 1964. p. 65.
  16. ^ "Chung-Hoon Captain of Missile Ship". The Honolulu Advertiser. 14 August 1956. p. A10. Retrieved 11 November 2018 – via Newspapers.com.
  17. ^ "Capt. Arthur R. Galla Takes over Norton Sound". Oxnard Press-Courier. 2 August 1957. p. 1. Retrieved 11 November 2018 – via Newspapers.com.
  18. ^ "Adm. Chung-Hoon Retires to Hawaii". Independent. 10 December 1959. p. 12. Retrieved 11 November 2018 – via Newspapers.com.
  19. ^ "Best Wishes". Newspapers.com. 13 January 1961. p. 14. Retrieved 2018-11-11.
  20. ^ "Chung-Hoon in race for State Senate". Honolulu Star-Bulletin. 21 July 1966. p. A-13. Retrieved 11 November 2018 – via Newspapers.com.
  21. ^ Engledow, Ed (3 October 1966). "Hot Fights Loom In Senate Races". Honolulu Advertiser. p. A-1A. Retrieved 11 November 2018 – via Newspapers.com.
  22. ^ Lt. j.g. James McLeod (September 10, 2004). "Chung-Hoon arrives today" (PDF). Hawaiʻi Navy News. Archived from the original (PDF) on October 29, 2013. Retrieved October 22, 2009.
  23. ^ Calderón, Daniel J. (September 20, 2004). "Chung-Hoon Commissioned". Navy NewsStand. Archived from the original on 2018-07-31. Retrieved July 30, 2018.
  24. ^ "Chung Hoon-Corson Rites Held Thursday in Twilight". Honolulu Star-Bulletin. 10 December 1938. p. 3 (Society). Retrieved 11 November 2018 – via Newspapers.com.
  25. ^ "Anita Chung-Hoon Dies at Tripler; Funeral Friday". Honolulu Star-Bulletin. 4 May 1950. p. 6. Retrieved 11 November 2018 – via Newspapers.com.
  26. ^ Waite, David (12 October 2000). "Missile destroyer to honor officer". Honolulu Advertiser. pp. B1, B2. Retrieved 11 November 2018 – via Newspapers.com.
  27. ^ "Mrs. Ola Chung-Hoon Dies; Services Saturday". Honolulu Advertiser. 28 April 1960. p. C4. Retrieved 11 November 2018 – via Newspapers.com.
  28. ^ "Obituaries". Honolulu Advertiser. 21 April 2001. Archived from the original on 2001-07-17. Retrieved 11 November 2018.
  29. ^ "Mrs. Jean J. Carlisle Married To Rear Admiral Chung-Hoon". Honolulu Star-Bulletin. 1 February 1961. p. 20. Retrieved 11 November 2018 – via Newspapers.com.
  30. ^ "Hall of Valor for Gordon Paiea Chung-Hoon, Archived 2016-03-06 at the Wayback Machine" Military Times, accessed March 5, 2016.
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