Thomas J. Hudner Jr., a Naval Aviator who retired as a U.S. Navy Captain, received the Medal of Honor from President Harry S. Truman for displaying uncommon valor during an attack on his element leader, the first African American Naval Aviator to fly in combat, Ensign Jesse L. Brown. During the Battle of Chosin Reservoir in the Korean War, anti-aircraft fire hit Brown's aircraft, damaging a fuel line and causing him to crash. After it became clear Brown was seriously injured and unable to free himself, Hudner proceeded to purposefully crash his own aircraft to provide aid. Hudner injured his own back during his crash landing, but he stayed with Brown until a rescue helicopter arrived. Hudner and the rescue pilot worked in sub-zero temperature, in a snow-laden area behind enemy lines in an unsuccessful attempt to free Brown from the smoking wreckage.
Hudner was the last living Medal of Honor recipient from the Korean War until he passed away on 13 Nov 2017.
After receiving recognition for his heroism, Hudner remained on active duty, completing an additional 22 years of Naval service during which his accomplishments include flying 27 combat missions in the Korean War and serving as the executive officer aboard the USS KITTY HAWK during the Vietnam War.
The Navy announced DDG 116 would be named THOMAS HUDNER on 07 May 2012. The Secretary of the Navy, Hon. Ray Mabus, made the announcement citing "Thomas Hudner exemplifies the core values of honor, courage and commitment the Navy holds dear," and "Naming the Navy's next DDG for him will ensure his legacy will be known, honored, and emulated by future generations of Sailors and Marines who serve and all who come in contact with this ship."