Connor, James R. (Reagan), 1922-2006
Biography
Lieutenant James Reagan Connor was born on December 7, 1922, and grew up in Abilene, Texas. He entered active duty in the Navy on April 11, 1943, as an Aviation Cadet. On July 5, 1944, he was commissioned as an Ensign and immediately reported to Pearl Harbor, where he was assigned duty aboard the USS Hancock until 1945. He later served as a Fighter Director for Fighting Squadron 7, participating in operations across the Philippines, Iwo Jima, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Okinawa, and Japan. During his time in Okinawa, Connor served both aboard the USS Frank E. Evans and the USS Hancock.
On October 29, 1944, Connor was awarded the Bronze Star. On that day, the USS Hancock was stationed near Leyte Gulf, where Connor identified numerous attacking enemy aircraft and promptly directed fighters from Fighting Squadron 7 to intercept them. His decisive actions contributed significantly to the protection of the carrier task force. He also earned seven battle stars for his service.
Connor requested to be relieved from service on December 1, 1945, after receiving word of his father's ailing help and need for assistance with managing the family accounting business.
Connor passed away on July 6, 2006, in Austin, Texas.
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
James R. Connor Papers
The James R. Connor Papers include a range of documents and materials primarily related to James R. Connor’s military service aboard the USS Hancock. This collection includes service records, photographs, pamphlets, publications, reunion materials, and personal documents. Additionally, there is material related to his brother, Theodore, and his service on the USS West Virginia.