Thomas James Reeves facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas James Reeves
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Chief Radioman Thomas J. Reeves
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| Born | December 9, 1895 |
| Died | December 7, 1941 (aged 45) |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
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Branch
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 United States Navy Reserve United States Navy |
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Rank
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Chief Radioman |
| Unit | USS California (BB-44) |
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Conflicts
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World War II |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
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Thomas James Reeves was born in Thomaston, Connecticut, on December 9, 1895. He was a brave U.S. Navy radioman. A radioman works with radio equipment. Thomas Reeves sadly died during the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. After his death, he was given the Medal of Honor, a very special award. A ship, the destroyer escort USS Reeves, was later named in his honor.
Contents
Thomas Reeves joined the United States Naval Reserve on July 20, 1917. He started as an Electrician third class. He left duty on July 21, 1919.
He was called back to active duty on April 16, 1920. This time, he joined the regular Navy. He served until August 21, 1921. But he loved the Navy! So, on October 12, 1921, he joined again. He decided to make the Navy his career.
He worked hard and moved up in rank. He became a Chief Radioman. This is a senior role for someone who handles radio communications.
Heroic Actions at Pearl Harbor
Chief Radioman Reeves was serving on the battleship USS California (BB-44). This was on December 7, 1941. On that day, the Japanese launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor.
During the attack, the battleship's ammunition hoists stopped working. These hoists usually lift ammunition to the guns. But they were broken.
Thomas Reeves saw the problem. He took action on his own. He went into a burning hallway. He helped move ammunition by hand to the anti-aircraft guns. These guns were firing back at the enemy planes. He kept helping even as smoke and fire surrounded him. Sadly, he was overcome by the smoke and fire. He died because of his brave actions.
For his amazing courage, Chief Radioman Reeves received the Medal of Honor. This award was given to him after his death. It is the highest military honor in the United States.
Remembering Thomas Reeves
In 1943, a destroyer escort ship was named in his honor. This ship was called the USS Reeves (DE-156). Naming a ship after him helped remember his bravery and sacrifice.
See also
