15 Facts About Gordon Chung-Hoon

Gordon Chung-Hoon was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, on July 25,1910.

Gordon Chung-Hoon attended the United States Naval Academy and graduated in May 1934, becoming the first Asian American graduate of the academy.

Gordon Chung-Hoon heard the attack from Honolulu and attempted to return to his ship but was delayed by roadblocks and traffic jams.

The next day Gordon Chung-Hoon led a burial at sea for the dead.

Gordon Chung-Hoon was promoted to the rank of captain on 1 July 1953.

Gordon Chung-Hoon served as the Commanding Officer of Afloat Training Group Middle Pacific from March to June of 1954, where he directed the training and certification of Hawaii based ships.

Gordon Chung-Hoon was transferred to the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations in Washington, DC, his last post.

Gordon Chung-Hoon retired in October 1959 and was promoted to rear admiral upon retirement, making him the first Asian American flag officer of the United States Navy.

Gordon Chung-Hoon was appointed to be the director of the Hawaii Department of Agriculture by the first Governor of the State of Hawaii, William F Quinn, and held that position between January 1961 and June 1963.

Gordon Chung-Hoon made a foray into politics by running as a Republican for one of the four seats representing the Hawaii 7th State Senate District in 1966, but finished fifth in the primary.

Gordon Chung-Hoon died on July 24,1979, at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu.

Gordon Chung-Hoon first married Anita Corson while serving aboard Dent in December 1938; she died of cancer in 1950.

Gordon Chung-Hoon married Ola Luckey in 1952, and later retired in order to spend more time with her.

Gordon Chung-Hoon married his third wife, travel consultant Jean Carlisle, in January 1961, adopting her son, Perry White; Chung-Hoon was otherwise childless.

Commander Gordon Chung-Hoon's gallant fighting spirit, courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.