Seaman First Class Johnnie D. Hutchins
U.S. Navy

Background
Johnnie David Hutchins enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserve (USNR). Assigned to USS LST 473.

Wartime History
On September 4, 1943 aboard USS LST 474 in Huon Gulf during the Allied landings near Lae, USS LST 473 was hit by a bomb and although mortally wounded, maneuvering the vessel clear of a torpedo and died at the helm. For his actions, he earned the Medal of Honor, posthumously.

Medal of Honor (September 4, 1943 posthumously) "For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous valor above and beyond the call of duty while serving on board a Landing Ship, Tank - USS LST 473 - during the assault on Lae, New Guinea, 4 September 1943. As the ship on which Hutchins was stationed approached the enemy-occupied beach under a veritable hail of fire from Japanese shore batteries and aerial bombardment, a hostile torpedo pierced the surf and bore down upon the vessel with deadly accuracy. In the tense split seconds before the helmsman could steer clear of the threatening missile, a bomb struck the pilot house, dislodged him from his station, and left the stricken ship helplessly exposed. Fully aware of the dire peril of the situation, Hutchins, although mortally wounded by the shattering explosion, quickly grasped the wheel and exhausted the last of his strength in maneuvering the vessel clear of the advancing torpedo. Still clinging to the helm, he eventually succumbed to his injuries, his final thoughts concerned only with the safety of his ship, his final efforts expended toward the security of his mission. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country."

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