Machinist’s Mate, Petty Officer Third Class John R. Tomasko
Stratford Veterans Museum
John R. Tomasko enlisted in the U.S. Navy in January of 1943, before his eighteenth birthday to join the fight during World War II.
After recruit training, John reported to Aviation Machinist School before reporting to the U.S.S. Ticonderoga CV-14 with Torpedo Squadron 80 as a Gunner, on a Gumman Avenger Torpedo Bomber in the South Pacific.
While serving on the Ticonderoga with Torpedo Squadron 80, John took part in bomber attacks against Japanese forces in the Philippine Islands. His actions during the attacks on the Japanese forces resulted in him receiving the Meritorious Achievement Medal, the U.S. Navy Air Medal, and Distinguished Flying Cross citations for his bravery from the President of the United States, Vice Admiral John S. McCain and Secretary of the Navy, James Forrestal.
Tomasko was wounded during a bombing attack against heavy enemy shipping in the China Coast Area on January 16, 1945, and even though he was wounded by enemy aircraft fire during the attack, Tomasko rendered first aid to the more seriously wounded radioman and assisted in abandoning the plane when a water landing was necessary because of the battle damage. Tomasko received a Purple Heart for his wounds during this action.
For a complete description of his service, the citations he received, photos of his plane and the Ticonderoga click on:
The Stratford Veterans Museum’s mission is to recognize those veterans from Stratford who have served our country honorably in war and in peace and to act as a repository for their stories. If you are a veteran who lives in or has lived in Stratford, or family of a Stratford veteran, and would like to share your story of service, or if you have items related to a Stratford veteran you would like to loan or donate, please email us.
Our Regular Hours are:
Wednesday: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Please call for an appointment for other times at (203) 583-4484
