Elvin Bell
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United States NavyElvin Bell | |
|---|---|
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| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service | United States Navy |
| Rank | Machinist's Apprentice Third Class |
| Service number | 646-04-19 |
| Unit | USS Lexington (CV-2) |
| Battles / wars | World War II |
| Awards |  Navy and Marine Corps Medal |
Elvin Bell was a decorated African-American hero who served with the US Navy during the Second World War. When the USS Lexington (CV-2) was damaged in battle on May 8, 1942, he distinguished himself by rescuing three men.
The USS Lexington (CV-2) was an American aircraft carrier during the Second World War. It was part of the Pacific fleet and had 2,122 men on board. The ship escaped the attack on Pearl Harbor because it was en route to Midway to deliver aircraft. The ship also participated in the aborted attack on Wake Island.
May 8, 1942
During the battle of the Coral Sea, on May 8, 1942, the USS Lexington was badly damaged. Two torpedoes and three bombs caused the ship to be damaged. Although it initially appeared that the damage was limited, gasoline vapors exploded and it was not possible to save the ship. Bell helped evacuate personnel trapped below decks.[1] What happened to Bell after the Second World War is unknown.[2]