Charles E Brannon

Navy career

Brannon enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve 14 April 1941 for aviation training. Ensign Brannon reported for duty in Torpedo Squadron 8 in carrier Hornet (CV-8) 3 February 1942.

Awarded the Navy Cross

Ensign Brannon was killed in action 4 June 1942 during the Battle of Midway. He was awarded a Navy Cross posthumously for his extraordinary heroism in pressing home an attack against a Japanese carrier. The official Navy citation:

The Navy Cross is presented to Charles E. Brannon (0-105955), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service beyond the call of duty as a Pilot of Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8) embarked from Naval Air Station Midway during the "Air Battle of Midway", against enemy Japanese forces on 4 and 5 June 1942. In the first attack against an enemy carrier of the Japanese invasion fleet, Ensign Brannon pressed home his attack in the face of withering fire from enemy Japanese fighters and anti-aircraft forces. Because of events attendant upon the Battle of Midway, there can be no doubt that he gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country. His courage and utter disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Namesake

Charles E. Brannon (DE-446) was named in his honor. She was launched 23 April 1944 by Federal Shipbuilding Co., Newark, New Jersey; sponsored by Second Lieutenant D. Brannon, WAG; and commissioned 1 November 1944, Commander E. W. Todd in command.