Guy Pierre Bordelon
Date of death: December 2002Place of Birth: Louisiana, Ruston
Home of record: Alexandria Louisiana
Guy Bordelon was an Eagle Scout, who attended pre-law classes at Louisiana Polytechnic Institute, before attending Louisiana State College. He earned his wings in 1943, but was assigned state-side throughout the war, failing to get an opportunity for aerial combat. After the war he received a regular commission in the U.S. Navy. Lieutenant Bordelon was the Navy's first prop ace in Korea, the only Navy ace in Korea, and the only night ace in Korea. Before he retired, Bordelon served on the staff of Commander, Task Force 140, supporting Apollo recovery missions. He died in December 2002.
AWARDS AND CITATIONS
Navy Cross
Awarded for actions during the Korean War
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Guy Pierre Bordelon (NSN: 0-278231), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Pilot of a night fighter plane in Fighting Squadron ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-TWO (VF-152), embarked in U.S.S. PRINCETON (CVS-37), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Seoul, Korea, on 17 July 1953. While flying a night mission, Lieutenant Bordelon intercepted and destroyed a Communist night intruder aircraft bringing to a total of five such aircraft he has destroyed recently, thereby becoming the first Navy pilot to achieve such a record during the Korean War. For many months the enemy has conducted a series of night air raids which constituted a serious threat in the thickly populated area of Seoul, and Lieutenant Bordelon's actions have assisted materially in the removal of this threat. He exhibited superior ability and airmanship by maneuvering his plane into an attack position which enabled him to destroy the enemy aircraft. His conspicuous gallantry, fearless aggressiveness and unparalleled performance in pressing home vigorous and superbly executed attacks contributed directly to the successful accomplishment of his assigned mission. By his outstanding professional skill and great personal courage, Lieutenant Bordelon's accomplishments represent an important increase in the night security of friendly forces. His conduct throughout reflects great credit upon himself and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 1487 (July 24, 1953)
Action Date: July 17, 1953
Service: Navy
Rank: Lieutenant
Company: Fighting Squadron 152 (VF-152)
Division: U.S.S. Princeton (CVS-37)
Submitted by Doug Bewall RMCM USN Ret
