US Navy Episodes

At just 18 years old, Navy Hospital Apprentice First Class Robert Bush displayed extraordinary courage during the Battle of Okinawa. While under relentless enemy fire, he tended to a wounded Marine officer, all while fending off attacking Japanese soldiers with his sidearm and a discarded rifle. Gravely wounded himself—including the loss of an eye—Bush refused to be evacuated until his platoon commander was safe. For his heroic actions, he became the youngest sailor to receive the Medal of Honor...

Send us a text In this episode of the Duty & Valor Podcast, we honor the incredible story of US Navy Lieutenant Vincent Capodanno Jr., a Catholic chaplain who sacrificed everything to support his fellow Marines during the Vietnam War. Known as "the Grunt Padre," LT Capodanno's unwavering courage and selflessness on the battlefield saw him being posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. We’ll explore his extraordinary acts of valor, the impact he had on those he served alongside, and his enduring ...

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the extraordinary bravery of Navy SEAL Lieutenant Michael Thornton, whose heroic actions during a dangerous mission in Vietnam saw him being awarded the Medal of Honor. When his team came under heavy fire behind enemy lines, Thornton risked his life to save his commanding officer, Lt. Thomas Norris, dragging him to safety while under relentless enemy attack. Discover how Thornton’s selfless courage, unwavering loyalty, and sheer determinat...

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the extraordinary life of Rear Admiral Bruce McCandless, a hero of the Pacific Theater during World War II. When the USS San Francisco faced near destruction during the Battle of Guadalcanal, McCandless, then a communications officer, took command after his superiors were killed or incapacitated. His quick thinking and courageous leadership not only saved his ship but also played a pivotal role in securing a critical victory. Please visit...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the remarkable story of U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman Second Class Donald E. Ballard, a true American hero. During the Vietnam War, Ballard's selfless act of bravery saved the lives of Marines around him during an intense moment of combat. Join us as we explore the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of this extraordinary man, whose story is a powerful reminder of the bravery exhibited by so many during the Vietnam War. Don’t miss t...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of the Duty & Valor Podcast, you'll hear the story of, Lieutenant Commander Edward "Butch" O'Hare. Discover the incredible story behind O'Hare's legendary bravery on February 20, 1942, when he single-handedly defended the USS Lexington from a squadron of enemy bombers. With only a handful of bullets and unmatched determination, O'Hare's actions turned the tide of battle and earned him the Medal of Honor. Join us as we delve into the details of this daring ...

This episode honors Navy Commander Clyde Lassen, a Vietnam War hero who risked everything to save the lives of two downed aviators. We'll delve into his journey, from enlisting in the Navy to becoming a skilled pilot. Witness the bravery that earned him the Medal of Honor, as he piloted a helicopter on a daring night rescue mission under heavy enemy fire. CDR Lassen's heroism not only saved lives but also made him a symbol of courage and selflessness. Please visit our website to learn more abou...

US Navy Lieutenant Albert David wasn't your typical war hero. He was a humble engineer thrust into the heart of an unthinkable mission: capturing a German U-boat at sea. In the vast expanse of the Atlantic, during the heat of World War II, David led a daring raid, boarding the U-505 in a face-to-face confrontation with the enemy. His success not only turned the tide of the war, but also uncovered a trove of intelligence that changed the course of the conflict. David's story is a testament to the...

Join us in this episode to hear the true story of Joel T. Boone, a decorated naval officer who rose from humble beginnings to become a legend. Hear of his heroic actions during World War I, which earned him the Medal of Honor, and follow his exemplary career serving his country with distinction. Discover how Dr. Boone went on to become the White House physician under Presidents Hoover and FDR, caring for the nation's leader and family. This episode explores his unwavering dedication, unwavering ...

Join us on a captivating journey through history as we uncover the extraordinary life and heroic exploits of Captain David McCampbell, the Ace of Aces from World War II. McCampbell's incredible combat record and unwavering dedication to duty make him a true American legend. In this episode, we explore his remarkable story, from his early days to his pivotal role in some of the most intense aerial battles of the war. Discover the bravery and valor that define Captain McCampbell's legacy, and gain...

Join us as we uncover the awe-inspiring true story of Lieutenant Nathan Gordon, a distinguished United States Navy officer and recipient of the prestigious Medal of Honor during World War II. In this episode, we delve into the incredible acts of bravery and selflessness displayed by Lt. Gordon, as he fearlessly rescued downed airmen, making four daring sea landings in a single day. Prepare to be moved by his unwavering dedication to duty and the indomitable spirit that earned him the admiration ...

In this compelling episode of Duty & Valor we shine a spotlight on LT John Finn's remarkable story, from his undeterred resolve amidst the chaos and destruction of December 7, 1941, to his enduring legacy in the annals of American military history. Finn was the first Medal of Honor recipient in World War II, a testament to his unmatched bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Sources: wikipedia.org pearlharbor.org nytimes.com cmohs.org history.navy.mil coffeeordie.com Support the show T...

Uncover the awe-inspiring story of US Navy Pharmacist's Mate Second Class (PhM2c) George Wahlen, an undaunted hero during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. Despite suffering multiple injuries, Wahlen bravely persisted in treating wounded Marines, refusing evacuation. His extraordinary courage and dedication earned him the prestigious Medal of Honor. Join us in this video as we pay tribute to George Wahlen and delve into his inspiring WWII service. Please visit our website to learn more ab...

LCDR Izac was taken prisoner by the Germans during WWI where he was able to gather intelligence during confinement. He never gave up and made numerous escape attempts before being successful. I am honored to tell you his story. You can find his book here: https://amzn.to/3DR1J4z Sources https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edouard_Izac https://www.cmohs.org/news-events/medal-of-honor-recipient-profile/lieutenant-edouard-v-izac-the-last-surviving-medal-of-honor-recipient-from-wwi/ https://www.historyn...

Admiral Stockdale endured excruciating torture at the hands of captors for over seven and a half years while confined at the Hanoi Hilton during the Vietnam War. Get his book here: https://amzn.to/3Yhs7w9 Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Stockdale#cite_note-8 https://www.usna.edu/Notables/featured/10stockdale.php https://achievement.org/achiever/admiral-james-b-stockdale/ https://www.defense.gov/News/Feature-Stories/Story/article/2097870/medal-of-honor-monday-navy-vice-adm-james-s...

BMC James Williams is generally regarded as the most decorated enlisted man in US Naval history. He would enlist in the Navy at the age of 16 and would be awarded the Medal of Honor for his command of the PBR-105 during the Vietnam War. Sources: https://www.wearethemighty.com/popular/james-williams-medal-honor-hero/ https://www.warhistoryonline.com/instant-articles/decorated-enlisted-sailor-us.html?chrome=1 https://www.dvidshub.net/news/392463/murky-waters-crystal-clear-legacy-enduring-legacy-b...

Rear Admiral Eugene Fluckey was credited with employing new submarine warfare tactics during WWII, which would see him and the men of the USS Barb destroy many enemy ships, as well as a clandestine operation that destroyed a train. He would go on to be awards the Medal of Honor. I am honored to tell you his story. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eugene_B._Fluckey https://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/how-one-very-special-us-submarine-ravaged-japan-during-world-19746 https://www.warh...