Thomas J. Hudner, Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas J. Hudner, Jr.
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| Birth name | Thomas Jerome Hudner, Jr. |
| Nickname(s) | "Lou" |
| Born | August 31, 1924 Fall River, Massachusetts |
| Died | November 13, 2017 (aged 93) Concord, Massachusetts |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1946–1973 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit |
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| Commands held | Training Squadron 24 |
| Battles/wars | |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Thomas Jerome Hudner, Jr. (born August 31, 1924 – died November 13, 2017) was a brave United States Navy officer. He was also a skilled pilot who flew planes for the Navy. He became a Captain. He earned the highest military award, the Medal of Honor. He received it for trying to save his friend and fellow pilot, Ensign Jesse L. Brown. This happened during a very cold battle called the Battle of Chosin Reservoir in the Korean War.
Contents
Thomas Hudner was born in Fall River, Massachusetts. He went to school at Phillips Academy. Later, he studied at the United States Naval Academy. At first, he wasn't very interested in flying. But he soon learned to fly planes. He then joined a group of pilots called Fighter Squadron 32.
Flying in the Korean War
When the Korean War began, Hudner flew a type of plane called an F4U Corsair. In October 1950, he arrived near Korea. He flew missions from a ship called the USS Leyte. These missions helped support soldiers on the ground.
A Heroic Rescue Attempt
On December 4, 1950, Hudner and Brown were flying their planes. They were on patrol near the Chosin Reservoir. This area was very cold and covered in snow.
Brown's Plane Crashes
Suddenly, Chinese soldiers shot down Brown's Corsair plane. It crashed onto a snowy mountain. The plane caught fire, trapping Brown inside.
Hudner's Brave Choice
To try and save Brown, Hudner did something amazing. He purposely crashed his own plane nearby. He landed it on the snowy mountain in freezing temperatures. He wanted to help Brown escape from his burning aircraft.
The Outcome of the Rescue
Despite Hudner's brave efforts, Brown was badly hurt. He died from his injuries. Hudner himself was also injured when he landed his plane. He had to leave Brown behind.
Life After the War
After the Korean War, Hudner continued to serve in the U.S. Navy. He worked on several Navy ships. He also served with different flying groups. For a short time, he was a leader on the USS Kitty Hawk during the Vietnam War. He retired from the Navy in 1973.
Later Work and Legacy
After retiring, Hudner worked with groups that help military veterans. He lived in Concord, Massachusetts. A special Navy ship, a guided missile destroyer, was named after him. It is called the USS Thomas Hudner.
Thomas Hudner passed away at his home in Concord, Massachusetts on November 13, 2017. He was 93 years old.
Related pages
Images for kids
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Hudner shortly after becoming a naval aviator in 1950.
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Ensign Jesse L. Brown, whom Hudner received the Medal of Honor for attempting to save in 1950.
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Hudner receives the Medal of Honor from President Harry S. Truman on 13 April 1951.
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Truman congratulates Hudner after presenting him with the Medal of Honor.
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Hudner (right) speaks with Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter at the U.S. Naval Academy in December 2008.
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Naval Aviator Badge
_the_Honorable_Dr._Donald_C._Winter_visits_with_Medal_of_Honor_recipient_retired_Navy_Capt.Thomas_J._Hudner,_Jr._(Small).jpg)
See also
In Spanish: Thomas J. Hudner, Jr. para niños
