Leland M. Burr, Jr.

WORLD WAR II

Lieutenant Commander Leland M. Burr, Jr.

U.S. Navy Reserve

November 11, 1907 – January 10, 1945

Citations: Navy Cross, Purple Heart, Medal of Liberty

Lieutenant Commander Leland M. Burr, Jr. enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve March 10, 1942. On January 8, 1945, while serving as Staff Watch Officer aboard the USS Callaway near the Philippine Islands, a Japanese plane struck near his station and exploded.

Despite extensive burns, he refused medical care and proceeded to rescue and offer assistance to other casualties and fight fires through blinding smoke and scorching flames until he was ordered to sick bay, where he later died.

For his actions that day, Lieutenant Commander Burr was awarded the nation’s second highest award for valor, the Navy Cross. His citation commented that he served as an inspiring example of determination and self-sacrificing courage in the highest traditions of the U.S. Navy.

Lieutenant Commander Burr left his wife Elizabeth L. Burr and three children. His remains are interred at the Manila American Cemetery, Fort Bonifacio, Manila, Philippines.