Aubrey Fitch

Aubrey Fitch was a distinguished United States Navy admiral and naval aviation pioneer who played a crucial role in the Pacific War during World War II. He commanded the USS ''Lexington'' during the pivotal Battle of the Coral Sea and later served as Commander, Aircraft, Battle Force, and as Deputy Commander of the South Pacific Area under Admiral William Halsey Jr.. His career spanned over four decades, transitioning from surface warfare to become a key leader in naval aviation, and he was instrumental in developing the Naval Air Training Command.

Early life and education

Aubrey Fitch was born in Saint Ignace, Michigan, and later moved with his family to Washington, D.C.. He received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, graduating in the class of 1906. Among his notable classmates was future Chief of Naval Operations Harold Rainsford Stark. His early education instilled a strong foundation in naval tradition and seamanship, preparing him for a career that would eventually bridge the gap between the United States Navy's surface fleet and its emerging air arm.

Naval career

Following graduation, Fitch served on various battleships and destroyers, including the USS ''Kentucky''. He commanded the destroyer USS ''Melvin'' and later served as executive officer of the USS ''Mississippi''. Demonstrating adaptability, he transitioned to naval aviation, earning his wings as Naval Aviator No. 74 in 1930. He held important aviation posts, including command of the Naval Air Station Pensacola and service on the staff of the Commander in Chief, United States Fleet. Before World War II, he commanded the USS ''Lexington'', a pivotal ''Lexington''-class aircraft carrier.

World War II service

Fitch's wartime service was most prominent in the early Pacific Theater of Operations. He was in command of Task Force 11, centered on USS ''Lexington'', during the critical Battle of the Coral Sea in May 1942. Although the ''Lexington'' was lost, the battle helped halt the Imperial Japanese Navy's advance toward Port Moresby. Subsequently, he served as Commander, Aircraft, Battle Force, United States Pacific Fleet, under Admiral Chester W. Nimitz. In late 1942, he became Deputy Commander, South Pacific Area and South Pacific Force, serving directly under Admiral William Halsey Jr. during the intense Guadalcanal campaign, where he coordinated crucial Allied air operations. His final wartime command was the Northwest Sea Frontier.

Later life and legacy

After the war, Fitch served as the Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy from 1945 to 1947, overseeing the post-war transition of the institution. He retired from the United States Navy in 1947 with the rank of admiral. In retirement, he lived in Newport, Rhode Island, and remained connected to naval affairs. The guided-missile frigate USS ''Aubrey Fitch'' (FFG-34) was named in his honor. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

Awards and decorations

Admiral Fitch's service was recognized with several high honors. He was awarded the Navy Distinguished Service Medal twice, first for his leadership at the Battle of the Coral Sea and later for his service as Deputy Commander in the South Pacific Area. He also received the Legion of Merit for his exceptional service in planning and executing air operations in the South Pacific. His ribbon bar included the World War I Victory Medal, the American Defense Service Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.

Category:United States Navy admirals of World War II Category:United States Naval Academy alumni Category:Recipients of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal Category:1883 births Category:1978 deaths