World War II Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. As a bomber pilot he was awarded the Nation's highest military honor for fighting off enemy attacks during a photographic mapping mission. Major Zeamer of the Army Air Force received the honor for his actions on June 16, 1943, while volunteering for a mission over an area near Buka in the Solomon Islands that was defended by the Japanese. While photographing the Buka airdrome, his crew spotted about 20 enemy fighters on the field. Zeamer continued with the mapping run, even after an attack in which he sustained gunshot wounds in both arms and legs that left him with broken leg. In spite of his injuries, he maneuvered the damaged plane so that his gunners could fend off the attack during a 40-minute fight in which at least five enemy planes were destroyed. He also earned two Distinguished Flying Crosses, two Silver Stars and two Air Medals for his service in the South Pacific. Although he was weak from the loss of blood and lapsing into unconsciousness he continued to command and directed the flight to a base 580 miles away. He was 88 years old when he died.
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. As a bomber pilot he was awarded the Nation's highest military honor for fighting off enemy attacks during a photographic mapping mission. Major Zeamer of the Army Air Force received the honor for his actions on June 16, 1943, while volunteering for a mission over an area near Buka in the Solomon Islands that was defended by the Japanese. While photographing the Buka airdrome, his crew spotted about 20 enemy fighters on the field. Zeamer continued with the mapping run, even after an attack in which he sustained gunshot wounds in both arms and legs that left him with broken leg. In spite of his injuries, he maneuvered the damaged plane so that his gunners could fend off the attack during a 40-minute fight in which at least five enemy planes were destroyed. He also earned two Distinguished Flying Crosses, two Silver Stars and two Air Medals for his service in the South Pacific. Although he was weak from the loss of blood and lapsing into unconsciousness he continued to command and directed the flight to a base 580 miles away. He was 88 years old when he died.
Bio by: Elizabeth Reed
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