On this day, October 29, 1944, the brave sailors of Gun Tub 10 aboard USS Intrepid faced the moment that would forever etch their names in history. These sailors were among relatively few Black personnel serving on Intrepid. On a typical day, these men served as stewards, cooking and cleaning for officers. However, when the ship was under attack, they operated the 20mm anti-aircraft guns in Tub 10.
The ship was engaged in combat off the coast of the Philippines when a Japanese kamikaze aircraft came hurtling directly towards them. Despite the imminent danger, the men of Gun Tub 10 stayed in their positions, firing at the incoming plane to protect the ship and their shipmates. The aircraft crashed into the gun tub in a fiery explosion that claimed the lives of 10 men.
Collection of the Intrepid Museum. P00.2012.01.88 In recognition of their valor, six of the surviving gunners were awarded the Navy Cross in a ceremony aboard ship:
However, these awards were later downgraded without explanation to the Bronze Star. Decades later, Alonzo Swann sought justice for himself and his comrades, ultimately filing a lawsuit against the Navy. He won his case and received his Navy Cross in a moving ceremony aboard Intrepid in 1993. His victory enabled other Gun Tub 10 sailors and their families to claim their Navy Crosses.
Collection of the Intrepid Museum. P00.2018.06.19 Preserving Their Legacy
As we commemorate this anniversary, we honor not only the bravery displayed on that day but also the ongoing journey toward recognition and equality for all service members. The legacy of Gun Tub 10 continues to inspire future generations to remember and celebrate those who fought valiantly for their country, often against overwhelming odds.
Today, Alonzo Swann’s Navy Cross medal and citation have a permanent home in the Intrepid Museum’s artifact collection. Alfonso Chavarrias’ Navy Cross is on display near a 20mm gun similar to those used by the men of Gun Tub 10. Tickets to visit the Museum and check out our collections are available for purchase here.
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