John J. Carolan

Coxswain John Carolan was employed by Pilgrim State Hospital prior to his enlistment in the US Navy in June, 1943. He served on the USS Destroyer Hunt*. John was awarded a Letter of Commendation from his Commanding Officer for his part in the rescue of 422 survivors from the Aircraft Carrier Franklin. He was awarded the Asiatic- Pacific Medal with Nine Stars, the Philippine Liberation Medal with Two Stars, and the American Theater Medal. John was honorably discharged from Lido Beach, NY in February, 1946.

*The Hunt was part of a fast Carrier Task Force engaged in air strikes on the Japanese homeland when the Aircraft Carrier Franklin was hit by enemy planes on March 19, 1945.