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Reeves, Thomas James

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Chief Radioman, USN, (1895-1941)

Thomas James Reeves was born in Thomaston, Connecticut, on 9 December 1895. He enlisted in the Navy in July 1917 as an Electrician, Third Class. Reenlisted after a brief separation from the service in October 1921, Reeves rose to the rank of Chief Radioman during the following two decades. During the 7 December 1941 Japanese air raid on Pearl Harbor, he was serving on board USS California (BB-44). When the ship was bombed, torpedoed and set afire, Chief Petty Officer Reeves assisted in the supply of ammunition until overcome by smoke and fire. For this act of sacrifice and heroism, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.


The escort ship USS Reeves (DE-156), 1943-1960, was named in honor of Chief Radioman Reeves.


This page features our only view of RMC Thomas James Reeves, USN.