Rededication of the Airstrip on Eastern Island as
Henderson Field
This plaque rededicates the airstrip on Eastern Island as "Henderson Field" in honor of the memory of Major Lofton R. Henderson, USMC, who, against all odds, demonstrated conspicuous courage and unyielding devotion to duty in the Battle of Midway (June 4, 1942). Flying from the airstrip on Eastern Island in a SBD-2 Dive Bomber (BuNo-2101) and squadron commander of Marine Scout-bombing Group Two Forty One, he led his men heroically in a bombing attack on the Japanese carrier, Hiryu. Without fighter support, his plane was immediately engaged and destroyed by Japanese Zero fighters. Major Henderson's leadership and action contributed to an astonishing victory for the United States. He made the ultimate sacrifice for his country: He gave his life. The airstrip proudly bears his name

Born: May 24, 1903                 Died: June 4, 1942
Proudly Honored By
The International Midway Memorial Foundation
August 31, 1995