Robert K. Huntington, Date of Birth, Date of Death

Robert K. Huntington

American aciator

Date of Birth: 13-Mar-1921

Date of Death: 05-Jun-1942

Profession: United States Naval Aviator

Nationality: United States

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Robert Kingsbury Huntington (13 March 1921 – 5 June 1942), was a naval aircrewman and member of Torpedo Squadron 8 (or VT-8).
He was radioman/gunner to Ensign George Gay's TBD Devastator aircraft.
Along with his entire squadron (with the exception of Gay), Huntington was killed during the Battle of Midway, on 4 June 1942. Born in Los Angeles, California, enlisted in the United States Navy 21 April 1941.
He served on board Lexington (CV-2) and was rated aviation radioman third class before being transferred to Torpedo Squadron 8 on board Hornet (CV-8).
He received the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism and extraordinary achievement as rear gunner in George Gay's torpedo plane during an attack against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway 4 June 1942.
Flying without fighter support, Gay and Huntington pressed home their attack with utter disregard for their own personal safety, in the face of a tremendous antiaircraft barrage and overwhelming fighter opposition.
Huntington was killed when his plane was shot down.
However, Gay survived, becoming the sole member of the squadron to live through the battle.