Admiral Marc A. Mitscher
U.S. Navy (USN) World War II Pacific War

Background
Marc Andrew Mitscher was born January 26, 1887 to parents Oscar A. Mitscher and Mrs. Myrta V. Shear Mitscher in Hillsboro, Wisconsin. Nicknamed "Pete".

Wartime History
On October 20, 1941 took command of USS Hornet (CV-8) when commissioned into the U.S. Navy (USN) at Newport News, VA and served at the start of the Pacific War including the B-25 Mitchell "Doolittle Raid" on April 18, 1942 and was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral before the Battle of Midway.

Commander of USS Hornet (CV-8) until July 1942. Next, became commander of Patrol Wing Two (PatWing 2). In December 1942 became Commander Fleet Air, Noumea. On April 4, 1943 became Commander Air, Solomon Islands (COMAIRSOLS). On June 19, 1943 attended a medal ceremony at Henderson Field on Guadalcanal. On July 25, 1943 relieved by General Nathan F. Twining.

Postwar
On March 1, 1946 promoted to the rank of Admiral.

Awards
Mitscher earned the Distinguished Service Medal for his service as COMAIRSOLS and placed in tactical control of all Army, Navy, Marine and Allied Air Forces in the South Pacific (SoPAC).

Memorials
Mitscher died February 3, 1947at age 60. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery at Section 2 Lot 4942 Grid W-32.5.

On January 26, 1952 USS Mitscher (DL-2) was launched named in his honor, sponsored by his widow, Mrs. Marc A. Mitscher.

In 1955, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar (MCAS Miramar) was renamed Mitscher Field in honor of Admiral Mitscher.

Relatives
Frances E.Mitscher née Smalley (wife passed away 1982 at age 92)

References
Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC) - Marc Andrew Mitscher
Arlington National Cemetery ANC Explorer - Marc Andrew Mitscher (grave photos)
The Magnificent Mitscher (1954) by Theodore Taylor
FindAGrave - ADM Marc Andrew Mitscher (photo, grave photo)

Contribute Information
Do you have photos or additional information to add?