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John Duncan Bulkeley (19 August 1911 – 6 April 1996) was a vice admiral in the United States Navy and was one of its most decorated naval officers. Bulkeley received the Medal of Honor for actions in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He was also the PT boat skipper who evacuated General Douglas MacArthur from Corregidor in the Philippines and commanded at the Battle of La Ciotat.

Key Information

Bulkeley's PT-boat heroics in defending the Philippines from Japanese invasion in 1941-1942 were the subject of the novel "They Were Expendable" by William Lindsay White in 1942, which was turned into the big screen epic They Were Expendable three years later by director John Ford, starring John Wayne, with Robert Montgomery playing a somewhat fictionalized Bulkeley role.

The United States Navy named an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer after him: USS Bulkeley (DDG-84), commissioned in 2001.

Early life and career

[edit]
Bulkeley as a lieutenant in the Navy

Bulkeley was born in New York City and grew up on a farm in Mansfield Township, Warren County, New Jersey, and graduated in 1928 from Hackettstown High School.[1][2] He was a 1933 graduate of the United States Naval Academy.[3]

Military career

[edit]

In December 1936, he was assigned to the United States Asiatic Fleet where he was appointed as engineering officer onboard USS Sacramento in China and witnessed the Japanese invasions of the Chinese cities of Shantou and Shanghai, and the USS Panay incident during the Second Sino-Japanese War.[4][5]

World War II

[edit]

At the dawn of World War II, Bulkeley was a lieutenant in command of Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron Three, a Philippines-based detachment of six motor torpedo boats. He hit his stride as a daring, resourceful and courageous leader. On 11 March 1942, he picked up General Douglas MacArthur, his family, and his immediate staff, who had been ordered to flee the Philippines, and took them aboard PT-41 and other 77-foot (23 m) motor torpedo boats through over 600 nautical miles (1,000 km) of open ocean. On arriving at Mindanao, MacArthur said, "You have taken me out of the jaws of death. I shall never forget it." Bulkeley earned many of his array of decorations while in command of that squadron and a subsequent one. He was evacuated to Australia by a B-17 aircraft in the final days of the campaign.

WWII poster with quote from John D. Bulkeley

In September 1942, while back in the United States helping to raise War Bonds as a lieutenant commander, he met former Ambassador to Britain Joseph Kennedy at New York's Plaza Hotel, and shortly after was instrumental in recruiting Lieutenant John F. Kennedy into the Navy's Motor Torpedo Boat Training Center (MTBTC) at Mellville, Rhode Island.[6] Kennedy's command of PT-109 would help to launch his first campaign for the United States Congress.

In 1944, he took part in the Normandy invasion. Bulkeley led torpedo boats and minesweepers in clearing the lanes to Utah Beach,[3] keeping German E-boats from attacking the landing ships along the Mason Line, and picking up wounded sailors from the sinking minesweeper USS Tide, destroyer escort USS Rich, and destroyer USS Corry. As invasion operations wound down, he received command of his first large ship, the destroyer USS Endicott. In August, 1944, Bulkeley was appointed to take charge of a diversion raid against the port of La Ciotat, an action that led to the Battle of La Ciotat. The two British gunboats under his command came under accurate fire from a German corvette and armed yacht. Charging in with only one gun working, he engaged both enemy vessels at point-blank range, sinking both. Afterwards, Bulkeley rescued the British sailors in the water and then rescued many of the German sailors as well. Later, he said, "What else could I do? You engage, you fight, you win. That is the reputation of our Navy, then and in the future."

Cold War

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During the Korean War in 1952, Bulkeley commanded Destroyer Division 132. After the war, he was Chief of Staff for Cruiser Division Five.[7]

In the early 1960s, Bulkeley commanded Clarksville Base, Tennessee, then a tri-service command under the aegis of the Defense Atomic Support Agency. Having lost none of his wartime daring, Bulkeley was known to test the alertness of the Marines guarding the base by donning a ninja suit, blackening his face and endeavoring to penetrate the classified area after dark without detection. This was a dangerous endeavor, as the Marines carried loaded weapons. Ever popular with his men, who both respected and admired him, Bulkeley could be seen driving around the base in his fire-engine red Triumph TR3 sports car with a large silver PT boat as a hood ornament.[8]

Promoted to rear admiral by President John F. Kennedy, who commanded PT-109 during World War II, Bulkeley was dispatched to command the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba,[3] where he met Cuba's threat to sever water supplies in response to the Bay of Pigs invasion and other assaults by ordering the installation of desalinization equipment to make the base self-sufficient.

Retirement and return to duty

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Bulkeley retired from active duty in 1975. However, he was recalled to active duty in a retired-retained status in order to serve as the commander of the Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) which conducts inspections and surveys of U.S. naval vessels before their commissioning and deployment.[9] In 1986, Bulkeley conducted an inspection of the battleship USS Iowa, finding numerous deficiencies and recommending it be taken out of service immediately. His advice was not heeded, and three years later, it suffered a turret explosion, killing 47 crewmen.[10] Later promoted to vice admiral, Bulkeley retired from the Navy in 1988, after 55 years of service.[3][11]

Personal life

[edit]

On 6 April 1996, Bulkeley died at his home in Silver Spring, Maryland, at age 84.[3] He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington, Virginia.[12]

Awards and decorations

[edit]

Bulkeley's awards and decorations include:

Bronze oak leaf cluster
Gold star
Gold star
Gold star
V
Gold star
Gold star
Gold star
Gold star
Bronze oak leaf cluster
Bronze star
Bronze star
Bronze star
Bronze star
Bronze star
Bronze star
Bronze star
Silver star
Surface Warfare Officer Insignia
Medal of Honor
Navy Cross Distinguished Service Cross
w/ one bronze oak leaf cluster 		Navy Distinguished Service Medal
w/ two 5⁄16" Gold Stars
Silver Star
w/ one 5⁄16" Gold Star 		Legion of Merit
w/ Combat "V" and one 5⁄16" Gold Star 		Purple Heart
w/ one 5⁄16" Gold Star
Joint Service Commendation Medal Combat Action Ribbon
w/ two 5⁄16" Gold Stars 		Navy Presidential Unit Citation
Army Presidential Unit Citation
w/ one bronze oak leaf cluster 		China Service Medal American Defense Service Medal
w/ Fleet Clasp (3⁄16" Bronze Star)
American Campaign Medal Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal
w/ three 3⁄16" Bronze Stars 		European–African–Middle Eastern Campaign Medal
w/ two 3⁄16" Bronze Stars
World War II Victory Medal National Defense Service Medal
w/ one 3⁄16" Bronze Star 		Korean Service Medal
Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon Distinguished Conduct Star
with Silver Star
(Philippines) 		Croix de Guerre with Palm
(France)
Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation Philippine Defense Medal United Nations Korea Medal
Republic of Korea War Service Medal Navy Expert Rifleman Medal Navy Expert Pistol Shot Medal

Medal of Honor citation

[edit]
Lieutenant Commander Bulkeley being awarded the Medal of Honor by President Franklin D. Roosevelt

Bulkeley's Medal of Honor citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism, distinguished service, and conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty as commander of Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron 3, in Philippine waters during the period 7 December 1941 to 10 April 1942. The remarkable achievement of LCDR Bulkeley's command in damaging or destroying a notable number of Japanese enemy planes, surface combatant and merchant ships, and in dispersing landing parties and land-based enemy forces during the 4 months and 8 days of operation without benefit of repairs, overhaul, or maintenance facilities for his squadron, is believed to be without precedent in this type of warfare. His dynamic forcefulness and daring in offensive action, his brilliantly planned and skillfully executed attacks, supplemented by a unique resourcefulness and ingenuity, characterize him as an outstanding leader of men and a gallant and intrepid seaman. These qualities coupled with a complete disregard for his own personal safety reflect great credit upon him and the Naval Service.[13]

Legacy

[edit]

The US Navy destroyer USS Bulkeley (DDG-84), commissioned in 2001, is named after him.

Route 57 in Mansfield Township, Warren County, New Jersey, is named the "Admiral John D. Bulkeley Memorial Highway" in his honor.[14]

The headquarters building of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay is named Bulkeley Hall. A quartering area for sailors at the naval station is named Camp Bulkeley.

In the media

[edit]

Bulkeley's version of PT boat heroics in defending the Philippines from Japanese invasion in 1941–1942 was the subject of the laudatory fictionalized novel "They Were Expendable" by William Lindsay White in 1942. Three years later John Ford directed a film version of the book, They Were Expendable, starring John Wayne and Robert Montgomery, who portrayed motor torpedo boat squadron commander LT Brickley, based on Bulkeley's early experiences commanding Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron Three (MTBRON3) in the Philippines. Montgomery, a veteran PT-boat commander, assisted Ford in the direction. Donna Reed and Ward Bond were also featured.

Bulkeley was depicted in the 1977 movie MacArthur by William Wellman Jr. during the evacuation of General MacArthur and his family from Corregidor.

See also

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Notes

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References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

John D. Bulkeley

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from Grokipedia
John D. Bulkeley (August 19, 1911 – April 6, 1996) was a officer renowned for his extraordinary heroism as commander of Squadron Three during the Japanese invasion of the in , for which he was awarded the . Born in to Frederick F. and Eva Bulkeley, he grew up in and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1933 and was commissioned as an ensign. His leadership in small-boat operations exemplified daring innovation and resilience, disrupting enemy advances and facilitating the evacuation of key Allied figures, including General and Philippine President Manuel Quezon, amid overwhelming odds. Bulkeley's wartime exploits began in December 1941, when his squadron of aging PT boats—lacking radar, torpedoes, and adequate support—engaged superior Japanese forces in Philippine waters, sinking or damaging numerous enemy vessels and aircraft over four months without major repairs. Despite fuel shortages, mechanical failures, and constant aerial bombardment, he orchestrated hit-and-run attacks that delayed Japanese progress and boosted Allied morale, earning him promotion to lieutenant commander and the Medal of Honor, presented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in August 1942. His actions, described in his citation as displaying "dynamic forcefulness and daring in offensive action" and "unique resourcefulness," directly contributed to the squadron's survival until its withdrawal to Australia in April 1942. Following his Philippines service, Bulkeley continued distinguished command roles, including participation in the Normandy Invasion and the invasion of in 1944, where he led the destroyer USS Endicott in shore bombardments, as well as service in the . He rose to the rank of in 1964 and served as commander of the at Guantanamo Bay, , from 1963 to 1966, where he resolved a critical water shortage by overseeing the construction of a plant. Among his numerous decorations were the , Army Distinguished Service Cross with oak leaf cluster, , , French , and Philippine Distinguished Conduct Star. Bulkeley retired from active duty in 1975 but was recalled to service, finally retiring in 1988 as a and died in , at age 84; he is buried at .

Early life and education

Family and upbringing

John D. Bulkeley was born on August 19, 1911, in to Frederick F. Bulkeley, a longtime employee of the Elco Motor Yacht Company, and his wife. His early childhood was spent in . The family later relocated to a farm near Hackettstown in Township, , where Bulkeley grew up in a rural environment. This upbringing instilled a strong sense of duty and adventure, reflected in his father's attempt to enlist in the U.S. Navy at age 74 during to support the war effort alongside his son. Bulkeley's father's background in boat manufacturing at Elco, which later produced PT boats during the war, contributed to the family's emphasis on technical skills and maritime pursuits. His early interests in and outdoor activities, nurtured by the rural life, foreshadowed his future naval career. Bulkeley received an appointment to the from the state of , despite being a resident of , and entered the academy in June 1929 by competitive examination. He demonstrated solid academic performance, experiencing little trouble with his studies, and ranked in the upper half of his class of 1933. During his time at the academy, Bulkeley was actively involved in extracurricular activities, including , where he participated as a member of the team, as well as wrestling, , and dramatic productions with the Masqueraders; he was also a member of the Society and the Quarter-deck . He graduated on June 1, 1933, earning a degree. Although eligible for an immediate commission due to his class standing, Bulkeley initially pursued his strong interest in by accepting a temporary commission in the U.S. Army Air Corps, serving for one year. He returned to the Navy and was commissioned as an ensign on June 19, 1934. His early sea duty focused on foundational naval skills, beginning as a deck watch officer aboard the from July 1934 to September 1936, where he trained in navigation, gunnery, and general shipboard operations. He then served briefly on the transport USS Chaumont before transferring to the USS Sacramento in December 1936. Aboard the USS Sacramento, Bulkeley served as engineering officer and chief engineer until December 1939, gaining hands-on experience in machinery and operations on a smaller vessel patrolling the Yangtze River. This assignment marked his introduction to the U.S. Asiatic Fleet and early specialization in small boat handling and riverine duties in the Far East, honing skills that would prove critical in later commands. In January 1940, he moved to the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga as a watch and division officer, further developing his expertise in fleet operations and coordination until early 1941.

Military career

World War II service

Bulkeley was promoted to lieutenant in April 1941 and assumed command of Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron Three (MTBRON-3) in August 1941, arriving with his six PT boats in Manila Bay, Philippines, by November. As the Japanese invasion of the Philippines began on December 8, 1941, Bulkeley led his squadron in a desperate defense, conducting daring night raids against superior enemy forces despite chronic shortages of fuel, ammunition, and spare parts, as well as faulty torpedoes and relentless air attacks. His boats inflicted damage on Japanese shipping, including sinking a transport in Subic Bay on January 24, 1942, via torpedo from PT-41, and a landing craft off Bataan on January 22–23, 1942, by PT-34; another raid in Binanga Bay on January 18–19, 1942, likely sank a freighter with secondary explosions from PT-34. Off Cebu on April 8–9, 1942, PT-34 and PT-41 attacked the Japanese cruiser Kuma, though their torpedoes missed or malfunctioned. These operations came at a high cost, with five of the six boats lost to grounding, mechanical failure, or enemy action by early April 1942, including PT-33 scuttled after grounding on December 24, 1941, and PT-34 destroyed by air attack on April 9. On March 11, 1942, Bulkeley orchestrated the high-risk evacuation of General , his wife Jean, son , and key staff—including Philippine President Manuel Quezon earlier that month—from Island through Japanese-held waters to , , a 560-mile journey aboard PT-41, PT-34, and PT-32. Under heavy fire and navigating minefields, rough seas, and engine breakdowns—PT-32 was abandoned en route due to failure—the boats reached on March 13, allowing MacArthur to fly to ; Bulkeley's under these conditions earned him the for the squadron's overall actions from December 1941 to April 1942. By late April, with all boats expended, Bulkeley scuttled the remnants and led his surviving crew in a final escape to via and other means. Promoted to on July 10, 1942, Bulkeley returned stateside and, while assigned to the Training Center in , in May 1942, personally recruited promising officers into the PT boat program, including Lieutenant (junior grade) . In 1944, as a , he commanded Squadron 102 during the invasion on June 6, leading PT boats and minesweepers to clear approaches to , repel German E-boats, and rescue survivors from the minesweeper USS Tide (AM-125), for which he received the . He was promoted to commander later that year. Later that year, Bulkeley took command of the destroyer USS Endicott (DD-495) and participated in , the Allied invasion of in August. During the Battle of on August 17–18, he led Endicott, two British gunboats, and 17 PT boats in a diversionary assault on German defenses, engaging shore batteries and sinking a merchant vessel; when his main armament failed, he closed with two German corvettes using secondary guns and depth charges, sinking both and liberating 169 Allied prisoners of war, earning the for his aggressive tactics.

Postwar assignments and Korean War

Following World War II, Bulkeley returned to the United States and assumed command of the destroyer USS Stribling (DD-867) from August 1945 to June 1946, overseeing its and initial operations as part of the naval reorganization. He then served as an instructor on the staff of the U.S. Naval Academy from July 1946 to May 1948, contributing to the training of future naval officers during the demobilization and early buildup. In May 1948, Bulkeley became of the USS Mount Olympus (AGC-8), serving until July 1949 and gaining experience in joint amphibious operations that built on his wartime expertise in small boat tactics. Bulkeley attended the Armed Forces Staff College in Norfolk, Virginia, from July 1949 to January 1950, where he studied inter-service coordination and . From January 1950 to October 1952, he held a key staff position as Chief of the Weapons Division in the Military Liaison Committee to the Atomic Energy Commission in , focusing on the integration of nuclear capabilities into naval logistics and fleet readiness amid emerging threats. Promoted to on July 1, 1952, this role emphasized his growing influence in naval policy and preparation for limited conflicts. From April 1954 to January 1956, Bulkeley served as and Aide to the Commander of Cruiser Division Five, operating in the western Pacific. During the , Bulkeley commanded Destroyer Division 132 from October 1952 to March 1954, operating in waters to support forces through shore bombardments against enemy coastal defenses and blockade enforcement along the North Korean coast. His division engaged North Korean and Chinese shore batteries, delivering accurate that disrupted enemy supply lines and protected allied advances, drawing on declassified reports of Task Force 77 operations that highlighted the critical role of destroyer squadrons in sustaining prolonged interdiction missions. These actions exemplified the transition from II-style combat to the constrained naval engagements of the , where Bulkeley's leadership ensured effective coordination with air and ground units.

Cold War commands

Following his service in the , which provided valuable experience in destroyer operations and fleet coordination, Bulkeley transitioned to senior roles that positioned him for strategic leadership amid escalating Cold War rivalries with the . From January 1956 to March 1958, he served as a staff officer with the in , where he contributed to high-level planning for naval deployments and deterrence strategies. From March to September 1958, Bulkeley commanded the fleet oiler USS Tolovana (T-AO-48), based out of Long Beach, California. In February 1959, Bulkeley assumed command of Destroyer Squadron Twelve (DesRon 12), a Pacific Fleet unit based out of San Diego, California, overseeing eight destroyers tasked with antisubmarine warfare (ASW) patrols and training exercises to counter the growing Soviet submarine fleet. He assumed formal command on April 22, 1959, and served through July 5, 1960; the squadron conducted routine ASW operations and maneuvers that bolstered U.S. naval preparedness against potential Soviet incursions in the western Pacific, reflecting the broader emphasis on maritime domain awareness in the late 1950s. Bulkeley's next assignment, beginning in July 1960, placed him in command of the Clarksville Nuclear Modification Center at , a facility dedicated to equipping U.S. ships with nuclear-capable systems as part of the nation's strategic deterrence posture. Under his leadership through December 1963, the center supported the modification of cruisers and destroyers for nuclear weaponry integration, enhancing fleet capabilities to project power and respond to Soviet nuclear advancements during a period of intense competition. Promoted to in 1963, Bulkeley took command of the U.S. at Guantanamo Bay, , from December 1963 to June 1966, navigating the base through volatile frictions with the Castro regime. In February 1964, when Cuban authorities severed the base's fresh water supply in retaliation for U.S. policies, Bulkeley decisively ordered the cutoff of the remaining U.S.-provided water to and accelerated the installation of a desalination plant, ensuring operational independence and underscoring American resolve in maintaining the leased territory amid heightened hemispheric tensions. In June 1966, Bulkeley was assigned as commander of Cruiser-Destroyer Flotilla Eight (CRUDESFLOT 8), operating primarily in the , where he directed surface force operations including joint exercises with allies to deter Soviet naval expansion and secure vital sea lanes. His flotilla participated in multinational maneuvers that emphasized interoperability and ASW tactics, contributing to the alliance's collective defense strategy against threats through 1967.

Later career and retirement

Recall to active duty

In 1975, at the age of 64, John D. Bulkeley was recalled to in a retired-retained status following his transfer to the retired list on January 1, 1974, to continue serving as President of the U.S. Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) in This role, which he had assumed in June 1967 after commanding Cruiser-Destroyer Flotilla Eight, positioned him as the oldest in the Navy at the time, allowing him to extend his service well beyond standard . As President of INSURV, Bulkeley directed comprehensive material inspections of U.S. ships, service craft, and equipment prior to commissioning, acceptance, and deployment, focusing on their operational readiness and seaworthiness. He remained in this position until his final retirement on August 31, 1988, after 55 years of service, during which his rigorous standards were credited with significantly improving overall naval preparedness.

Final retirement and post-service activities

Bulkeley permanently retired from the Navy in August 1988 at the age of 77, concluding over 55 years of service that included his initial retirement in followed by a recall to as president of the Board of Inspection and Survey. Upon retirement, promoted him to on the retired list in recognition of his long and distinguished career. Following his retirement, Bulkeley resided in Silver Spring, Maryland, where he led a quiet life focused on reflecting on his naval experiences rather than pursuing major business ventures or authoring extensive publications. He engaged in limited public activities, primarily sharing his recollections through interviews and commemorative events, such as participating in the 50th anniversary of the invasion in 1994. In a 1994 interview with the U.S. Naval Institute, conducted shortly after the Normandy event, Bulkeley discussed his operations and emphasized the teamwork of his squadron, contributing to the preservation of naval history. He also appeared in media programs, including a 1994 A&E documentary on D-Day featuring his first-person accounts, and a 1995 interview where he downplayed personal heroism, crediting his subordinates' efforts. Bulkeley's post-service involvement centered on veterans' commemorations and historical societies, aligning with a preference for low-profile contributions to naval legacy preservation.

Personal life

Marriage and family

John D. Bulkeley met his future wife, Hilda Alice Wood, in October 1937 while serving as an ensign aboard the gunboat USS Sacramento in Swatow, China; Wood was the daughter of a British port pilot stationed there. They married on November 10, 1938, at the U.S. Consulate in Shanghai, officiated by Special Judge Nelson Lurton amid rising tensions from Japanese aggression in the region. The couple honeymooned briefly in Shanghai before Bulkeley's duties required his return to sea, and they later remarried on November 10, 1948, in Suffolk County, Virginia, possibly to formalize their union under U.S. law following wartime disruptions. The Bulkeley family grew to include five children: sons John D. Bulkeley Jr. (born April 3, 1942 – March 11, 2024, who pursued a civilian career in ) and Peter T. Bulkeley (a retired U.S. Navy captain formerly stationed in Virginia Beach); and daughters Joan Stade (of ), Regina Day, and Diana J. Lindsay (the youngest). By early 1942, as Bulkeley commanded Squadron Three in the , his wife Hilda managed the household in the New York area with their toddler daughter Joan while pregnant with son John Jr. Naval assignments necessitated frequent family relocations, from their early years in to stateside bases during and after , with Hilda providing steadfast support on the home front—evacuating possessions during bombings in pre-war and raising the children alone while Bulkeley faced combat in the Pacific. This dynamic continued through postwar postings, including commands in and the U.S., where the family's resilience mirrored Bulkeley's own. Hilda died on March 16, 2008, in .

Death and burial

John D. Bulkeley died on April 6, 1996, at the age of 84, at his home in . His funeral was held with full military honors at , adjacent to , and was attended by prominent naval dignitaries, including Admiral Mike Boorda, who delivered the eulogy, as well as former Admiral Carl Trost and other flag officers serving as honorary pallbearers. Bulkeley was buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Section 5, Site 129-9. The gravesite bears an inscription denoting his rank: "VICE ADMIRAL UNITED STATES NAVY."

Awards and decorations

Medal of Honor

Lieutenant Commander John D. Bulkeley was awarded the Medal of Honor for his leadership of Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron Three during the defense of the Philippines from December 1941 to April 1942, where he commanded a small force of PT boats against vastly superior Japanese naval forces. Over this period, Bulkeley directed his squadron in 13 daring nighttime attacks, navigating more than 600 miles through heavily patrolled enemy waters to strike Japanese shipping and support Allied ground forces on Bataan and Corregidor. Despite sustaining wounds, losing three boats to enemy action, and facing constant fire from aircraft, destroyers, and cruisers, his aggressive tactics sank two Japanese destroyers, one transport, one gunboat, and numerous barges while damaging two heavy cruisers and other vessels, thereby disrupting enemy supply lines and preventing further Allied losses. The official Medal of Honor citation reads:
For extraordinary heroism, distinguished service and conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty as Commander of Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron THREE, during the period 7 December 1941 to 10 April 1942 in the waters off the Philippine Islands. In a series of desperate engagements with enemy forces greatly superior in number, Lieutenant Commander Bulkeley led his squadron in 13 daring attacks which destroyed 2 Japanese destroyers, 1 transport, 1 gunboat, and numerous barges and damaged 2 heavy cruisers and many other enemy ships. Despite constant and violent enemy fire, his boats repeatedly attacked superior enemy forces, and although he was wounded and 3 of his boats were sunk, he continued to lead his men with brilliant seamanship and daring courage. His indomitable fighting spirit and fearless leadership gained the everlasting admiration of all who served with him and prevented the destruction of additional Allied ships and personnel during the critical early stages of the Pacific War.
On August 4, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt presented the Medal of Honor to Bulkeley at the White House in a private ceremony, shortly after Bulkeley's return to the United States following his evacuation of General Douglas MacArthur from the Philippines. The presentation highlighted Bulkeley's role in sustaining Allied resistance amid the fall of the Philippines, with Roosevelt personally commending his "daring torpedo boat raids" as a symbol of American naval ingenuity. Bulkeley's award was among the earliest Medals of Honor bestowed on a U.S. officer in , underscoring the rarity of such recognition for naval personnel in the war's opening months when few actions had yet met the medal's exacting criteria. His exploits and the subsequent honor provided a vital boost to the isolated defenders on and , where news of his successful raids against overwhelming odds inspired perseverance amid encirclement and dwindling supplies.

Other military honors

Bulkeley received the in 1942 for his extraordinary heroism as commanding officer of Squadron Three during raids in Philippine waters, including the sinking of a 5,000-ton Japanese ship in Binanga Bay despite intense enemy fire. He was also awarded two Army Distinguished Service Crosses in 1942: the first for actions near on January 18 and 25, where he led attacks on Japanese vessels under heavy fire, and the second with an for heroism in the Mindanao Sea on April 8-9, destroying an enemy cruiser against overwhelming odds. Additionally, he earned an Army in 1942 for meticulous planning and execution of a high-risk strategic evacuation operation in the . During operations in Europe, Bulkeley was awarded a with Combat "V" in 1944 for exceptional leadership of squadrons supporting the invasion from June 6 to July 14, which protected Allied fleets from enemy threats. He received a second (via gold star in lieu of second award) in 1944 for conspicuous gallantry as of USS Endicott during the invasion of on August 16-17, where his actions contributed to sinking two German destroyers off . Bulkeley earned two Purple Hearts during the war: the first in December 1941 for wounds sustained in a Japanese attack on his in Mariveles Harbor, , and the second in 1944 for injuries received during the landings. For his contributions to the campaign, he was decorated with the French with Star by General in 1944. The Philippine awarded him the Distinguished Conduct Star for his defense of the islands against Japanese invasion forces in 1941-1942. In the Korean War era, Bulkeley received a second Legion of Merit for meritorious service commanding naval forces in combat operations. He later earned Navy Distinguished Service Medal(s), including one for exceptional performance as Commander Middle East Force during his recall to active duty in 1971-1973. Across his career, Bulkeley accumulated over 20 U.S. and foreign decorations, including campaign medals such as the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with four battle stars, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three battle stars, the Korean Service Medal with five battle stars, and the National Defense Service Medal with two stars, reflecting his sustained contributions through multiple conflicts.

Legacy and recognition

Posthumous tributes

Following Bulkeley's death in 1996, the U.S. Navy honored his legacy by naming the Arleigh Burke-class USS Bulkeley (DDG-84) after him. Commissioned on December 8, 2001, during a ceremony at the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum in , the ship recognizes Bulkeley's extraordinary heroism in , including his command of Squadron 3 and the evacuation of General from . As of 2025, the USS Bulkeley remains in active service, forward-deployed to , Spain, and has participated in multinational exercises such as Northern Coasts 2025 in the , where it conducted personnel transfers and replenishment operations alongside allies. In 1997, the designated a portion of Route 57 in , , as the "Admiral John D. Bulkeley Memorial Highway" to commemorate his distinguished naval service and New Jersey roots. This tribute underscores Bulkeley's pioneering role in warfare and his lifelong contributions to the , with the highway serving as a lasting landmark near his hometown area. Bulkeley was posthumously inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2017, recognizing his status as one of the county's most notable military figures and his impact on American naval history. The U.S. Navy continues to commemorate Bulkeley's evacuation of MacArthur through periodic events tied to anniversaries. For instance, in January 2023, Strike Fighter Squadron 103 conducted fly-bys over in tribute to Bulkeley and his crew during the 81st anniversary of the operation, emphasizing their enduring example of leadership under fire. In the , scholarly recognition has persisted, including a December 2023 profile in Naval History Magazine that detailed his combat philosophy and influence on modern . These tributes reflect ongoing appreciation for Bulkeley's high-impact contributions to U.S. .

Depictions in media

John D. Bulkeley's exploits during have been portrayed in several films, often focusing on his leadership of Squadron Three in the . In the 1945 war film , directed by John Ford, Bulkeley is fictionalized as Lieutenant John Brickley, played by Robert Montgomery. The movie, adapted from William L. White's 1942 nonfiction book of the same name, dramatizes the squadron's desperate defense against Japanese forces and the 1942 evacuation of General , emphasizing themes of sacrifice and resilience among crews. Bulkeley appears more directly in the 1977 biographical film MacArthur, directed by Joseph Sargent, where he is depicted by actor William Wellman Jr. as the lieutenant commanding the PT boat that ferries MacArthur and his family from Corregidor to Mindanao in March 1942. The portrayal highlights Bulkeley's daring navigation through enemy waters during this high-stakes escape, a pivotal event in the early Pacific campaign. In addition to cinematic depictions, Bulkeley features in naval histories and documentaries that reference his PT boat operations. Biographies of John F. Kennedy, such as those detailing his service on PT-109, note Bulkeley's role in recruiting Kennedy to the PT boat program in 1942, portraying him as a motivational figure who inspired volunteers amid the squadron's high attrition. Post-1996 publications have revived interest in Bulkeley's story through detailed accounts rather than dramatized media. Michael J. Dailey's 2019 book Under a Blood Red Sun: The Remarkable Story of PT Boats in the Philippines, 1941–1942 provides an in-depth narrative of Bulkeley's command, drawing on personal accounts to illustrate tactical innovations and crew endurance. Recent examples include a May 2024 episode of the MacArthur Memorial Podcast discussing Bulkeley's PT boat command and D-Day involvement, and a December 2024 article in Naval History Magazine titled "Earning Glory in a Forlorn Defense," which tributes his WWII service against Japanese forces. Archival footage appears in occasional World War II retrospectives on platforms like the U.S. Naval Institute's media library. Critiques of these depictions often acknowledge historical romanticization for dramatic effect while affirming their capture of Bulkeley's core leadership qualities. Bulkeley himself praised as "very authentic" in its portrayal of operations, despite composite characters and compressed timelines. Similarly, MacArthur accurately conveys the tension of the evacuation but simplifies the squadron's broader contributions, prioritizing inspirational narrative over exhaustive detail.

References

  1. https://www.history.navy.mil/research/library/research-guides/modern-biographical-files-ndl/modern-bios-b/bulkeley-john-d.html
  2. https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/john-d-bulkeley
  3. https://www.history.navy.mil/our-collections/photography/us-people/b/bulkeley-john-d.html
  4. https://www.usnwcarchives.org/repositories/2/digital_objects/1953
  5. https://militaryhallofhonor.com/honoree-record.php?id=63
  6. https://blog.togetherweserved.com/john-d-bulkeley/
  7. https://www.nytimes.com/1942/03/26/archives/father-of-navy-hero-tries-to-enlist-at-74-ff-bulkeleys-offer-to.html
  8. https://ia802303.us.archive.org/8/items/luckybag1933unse/luckybag1933unse.pdf
  9. http://veterantributes.org/TributeDetail.php?recordID=229
  10. https://www.history.navy.mil/about-us/leadership/director/directors-corner/h-grams/h-gram-003/h-003-3.html
  11. https://www.usni.org/magazines/naval-history/2024/december/earning-glory-forlorn-defense
  12. https://www.navy.mil/DesktopModules/ArticleCS/Print.aspx?PortalId=1&ModuleId=523&Article=3320083
  13. https://www.army.mil/medalofhonor/citations20.html
  14. https://www.history.navy.mil/browse-by-topic/wars-conflicts-and-operations/world-war-ii/1942/bataan-corregidor.html
  15. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CREC-1996-05-01/pdf/CREC-1996-05-01-pt1-PgS4515-5.pdf
  16. https://www.usni.org/magazines/naval-history-magazine/2023/december/john-d-bulkeley-you-engage-you-fight-you-win
  17. https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/b/bache-ii--dd-470-.html
  18. https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/CIA-RDP66B00403R000200170005-5.pdf
  19. https://www.navysite.de/dd/ddg84.htm
  20. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1996-04-09-me-56536-story.html
  21. https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/1994/august/i-crashed-through-interview-vice-admiral-john-d-bulkeley-us-navy
  22. https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/tv/1994/06/05/remembering-d-day/42b81868-cfb7-4398-b84c-b408e848fcae/
  23. https://www.nytimes.com/1996/04/08/us/vice-adm-john-d-bulkeley-84-hero-of-d-day-and-philippines.html
  24. https://www.usni.org/magazines/naval-history-magazine/1998/december/port-pilots-daughter
  25. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/49223339/hilda_alice-bulkeley
  26. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CREC-1996-05-10/html/CREC-1996-05-10-pt1-PgH4889.htm
  27. https://www.pilotonline.com/obituaries/john-d-bulkeley-jr/
  28. https://www.dvidshub.net/image/9130658/distinguished-visitor-retired-usn-capt-peter-bulkeley-visits-ddg84
  29. http://www.uscarriers.net/ddg84history.htm
  30. https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/local/1996/04/08/john-bulkeley-dies-at-84/80d70897-0861-4b1a-bcc9-637b9be72530/
  31. https://www.usni.org/magazines/naval-history-magazine/1996/august/looking-back
  32. https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Explore/Notable-Graves/Medal-of-Honor-Recipients/World-War-II-MoH-recipients/John-D-Bulkeley
  33. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/6129929/john_duncan-bulkeley
  34. https://www.nytimes.com/1942/08/05/archives/medal-of-honor-given-bulkeley-president-presents-congressional.html
  35. https://valor.militarytimes.com/recipient/recipient-1873/
  36. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2001/12/08/283501/189/en/U-S-Navy-Commissions-USS-BULKELEY-DDG-84-Built-By-Northrop-Grumman-Corporation.html
  37. https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/News-Stories/display-news/Article/4288002/uss-bulkeley-arrives-in-rostock-germany-in-preparation-for-northern-coast-2025/
  38. https://www.dvidshub.net/image/9313018/uss-bulkeley-ddg-84-receives-personnel-transfer-during-northern-coasts-2025
  39. https://pub.njleg.gov/bills/9697/SJR/33_I1.htm
  40. https://www.nj.com/warren/2017/10/warren_co_hall_of_fame_2017.html
  41. https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/News-Stories/Article/3320083/out-of-the-jaws-of-death-the-lasting-legacy-of-john-bulkeley-george-cox/
  42. https://www.usni.org/magazines/naval-history-magazine/2002/april/they-were-commendable
  43. https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/31037-macarthur/cast
  44. https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/420354/macarthur
  45. https://www.historynet.com/john-f-kennedys-pt-109-disaster/
  46. http://macarthurmemorial.org/492/MacArthur-Memorial-Podcast
  47. https://historical-films.fandom.com/wiki/MacArthur_%281977%29
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