* From the ’71 – ’72 Cruise Book:
Lloyd Thomas was born on March 10, 1912 in Nelsonville, Ohio. He graduated from Ohio University in June of 1935, became an aviation cadet on October 4, 1938, and received a commission as an Ensign in the United States Navy on October 26, 1939. He joined Torpedo Squadron Six on board the USS ENTERPRISE on December 13, 1939, and was promoted to Lieutenant (junior grade) one year later. He gave his life in his squadron's attack during the Battle of Midway, and was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross with the following citation:
“For extraordinary heroism and courageous devotion to duty while piloting an airplane of Torpedo Squadron Six in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway on June 4, 1942. Participating in a vigorous and intensive assaultagainst the Japanese invasion fleet, Lieutenant (junior grade) Thomas pressed home his attack with relentless determination in the face of a terrific barrage of anti-aircraft fire. The unprecedented conditions under which his squadron launched its offensive were so exceptional that it is highly improbable the occasion may ever recur where other pilots of the service will be called upon to demonstrate an equal degree of gallantry and fortitude. His extreme disregard of personal safety contributed materially to the success of our forces, and his conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”
Lloyd Thomas was entitled to the ribbon and facsimile of the Presidential Unit Citation awarded the USS ENTERPRISE for distinguished achievements from December 7, 1941 to November 14, 1942. He was also entitled to the Purple Heart Medal, the American Defense Service Medal (Fleet Clasp), Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal.
