More than 100 service members, family members, veterans and friends attended a memorial service May 3 for
World War II veteran Capt. Richard McCool Jr. at the Bainbridge Island, Wash., Seabold United Methodist Church.
McCool received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his
life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the Landing Craft Support U.S.S. LCS(L)(3) 122 during
operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Ryukyu chain, June 10-11, 1945. David Peterson, guest speaker,
welcomed visitors for attending the memorial service.
“We are gathered here today to reflect on his life, and he is remembered as a very respectable human being that touched
all of our lives,” said Peterson. “Today we honor a valued man who served in the Navy and loved our country. He would
always say that the real heroes were the ones who did not return.”
The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual
serving in the Armed Services of the United States.
“My father valued people and he always did the right thing,” said Carolyn McCool, daughter of Richard McCool. “In spirit, my
father never left the Navy, he loved the Navy. He is remembered and honored for his courage when he saved his shipmates
from a burning compartment during the war.”
McCool helped rescue the survivors of sinking destroyer USS William D. Porter (DD 579) June 10, 1945. In tribute of his military
service, a full final military honors was held outside the church.
Service members assigned to the Naval Base (NB) Kitsap funeral honor detail, rendered a 21-gun salute to show their respect.
“It’s very important to honor those who have served for our country and his sacrifices he made for our freedom,” said Chief
Machinist’s Mate (SW) Robert Knight, NB Kitsap.
After the gun salute, Chief Cryptologic Technician (SW) David Maffitt, NB Kitsap, presented Carole Elaine McCool with an
American flag.
“This is how we show admiration to those who have gone before us,” said Maffitt. “He did so much for our country and it’s
important to show we value his service.”