Education
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on 11 April 1921, John Laboon attended the Carnegie Institute of Technology for one year after high school.
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John Francis
Edit ProfileCareer
In 1939, he entered the United States Naval Academy, where he excelled in both athletics and academics. He also served as President of the Newman Club, a Catholic support group. After accelerated graduation in 1943, he trained as a submarine officer at New London, Connecticut, and upon completion, was assigned to United States Ship Peto (Steamship-265).
During his tour, Laboon served as Communications Officer, Gunnery and Torpedo Officer, and Executive Officer.
Lieutenant Junior Grade Laboon was awarded the Silver Star for his heroic actions on Peto"s tenth war patrol. Following pick-up of a downed American pilot near Honshū, the crew searched for his wingman.
The second aviator was soon spotted, but the water was shallow and mined, preventing Peto from maneuvering closer. To make matters worse, they were under intense enemy fire from a Japanese shore battery.
The submarine"s commanding officer called for a volunteer, and without hesitation, Lieutenant (junior grade) Laboon dove off the submarine.
Swimming throughout the mined waters, he rescued the pilot. Father Laboon then applied for a commission in the United States. Naval Reserve Chaplain Corps in February 1957, and in December 1958 was recalled to active duty. Over the course of the next 22 years, "Father Jake" served in various duty stations around the world, including Alaska, Hawaii, Japan, and Vietnam.
Other notable milestones in a distinguished career, include the honor of nomination for promotion to the rank of Admiral and services as Chief of Chaplains.
The Polaris submarine program was also blessed with having Father Jake as its first chaplain. The United States. Naval Academy was likewise honored with his services as the Senior Catholic Chaplain.
On 31 October 1980, Captain Laboon retired as Fleet Chaplain, United States. Atlantic Fleet. His final assignment was pastor of Saint Alphonsus Rodriguez Church in Woodstock, Maryland.
He served there until his death on 1 August 1988.
In 1993, the destroyer United States Ship Laboon (DDG-58) was named in honor of Father Laboon. The Chaplain"s Center at the Naval Academy is also named in his honor.
Achievements
Membership
In 1942, he was a member of the All-East Football Team, and in 1943, "jumped ship" to lacrosse, where he was selected for the Intercollegiate National Championship Navy Lacrosse Team, defenseman on the All-American Lacrosse Squad, and participated in the North-South All-Star game.
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Born
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Died
August 1, 1988 (aged 67) -
Nationality
United States -
Religion
Catholic
Education
Awards
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legionnaire of Legion of Merit; Silver Star; Legion of Merit Legion of Merit
The Legion of Merit (LOM) is a military award of the United States Armed Forces that is given for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements.The Legion of Merit (LOM) is a military award of the United States Armed Forces that is given for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements.