Claud Ashton Jones
United States Navy Medal of Honor recipient (1885-1948)
Claud Ashton Jones (October 7, 1885 – August 8, 1948) was a Rear Admiral in the United States Navy, and a Medal of Honor recipient.
Biography
Born in Fire Creek, West Virginia, he graduated from the Naval Academy in 1907, and after several years of duty at sea, did graduate study leading to a master of science degree at Harvard University.
He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism while serving as engineering officer on USS Memphis (CA-10) when his ship was wrecked by a wind-driven tsunami off Santo Domingo City August 29, 1916. Most of his remaining service was in engineering billets ashore and afloat, with a tour of duty as assistant naval attache at London.
As Rear Admiral from October 9, 1941, he served in the Bureau of Ships throughout World War II, working in the shipbuilding program, and as an assistant chief of the bureau. For his exceptionally meritorious service he was awarded the Legion of Merit. In addition, he was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Science by West Virginia University on May 18, 1942.
Rear Admiral Jones died in Charleston, West Virginia, August 8, 1948. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia.
Medal of Honor citation
Rank and organization: Commander, United States Navy.
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