Background
He was the son of Nicholas D. Mitchell and Margaret Ruth Green of Los Los Angeles
He was the son of Nicholas D. Mitchell and Margaret Ruth Green of Los Los Angeles
He was an aviator in the United States Marine Corps who was killed in action during the Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942. He would later have a United States Navy destroyer named in his honor. Mitchell enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve on May 23, 1941 and was appointed Aviation Cadet in the United States. Naval Reserve September 3, 1941.
He was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Marine Reserves on March 14, 1942, was assigned to combat duty in the Solomons the following July.
He was killed in action while engaging Japanese destroyers off Ramos Island, August 28, 1942. Lieutenant Mitchell was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for:
“Conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a pilot while pressing home his attack in the face of tremendous anti-aircraft fire.
His aggressive fighting spirit and heroic devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”
United States Ship Oliver Mitchell was named in his honor. She was laid down January 3, 1944 by the Brown Shipbuilding Company, Houston.
Launched February 8, 1944.
Sponsored by Mistress Margaret R. Mitchell, mother of 2nd Lieutenant Oliver Mitchell; and commissioned June 14, 1944, with Lieutenant Commander Kenneth J. Barclay in command.