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Highlighting Our Heroes: Capt. Leonard LaRue

Highlighting Our Heroes: Capt. Leonard LaRue

By Aileen Sainz
Legislative Affairs Manager

Navy League of the United States

This is part of an ongoing series, where we look at the lives and legacies of U.S. sea service men and women.

During their general session on June 17, the U.S. Catholic bishops unanimously endorsed the cause for sainthood of Capt. Leonard LaRue. Later known as “Brother Marinus,” he was the master of the U.S. Merchant ship involved in the largest humanitarian rescue mission by a single vessel in history.

On a freezing December day in 1950, crew members of the U.S.-flagged freighter SS Meredith Victory were ordered to Hungnam, presumably to help evacuate materiel and cargo. But after a U.S. Army briefing about the thousands of civilian refugees escaping from enemy fire, Capt. LaRue immediately volunteered to help. He ordered his crew to unload the ship’s cargo and fill the vessel with as many refugees as possible. Although the ship was built to carry 12 passengers (besides the crew and staff), over 14,000 Korean civilians occupied the five cargo holds and the entire main deck.

Capt. LaRue and the SS Meredith Victory embarked on a truly treacherous journey. Food and water were very limited, and crowded conditions made it difficult for people to even find space to sit. To maintain secrecy, the ship had no escort, and the only self-defense weapon available was a single pistol. Despite these difficult conditions, Capt. LaRue incredibly led his ship safely to Geoje Island with zero casualties onboard.

Over 70 years after this remarkable rescue operation, Capt. LaRue remains a U.S. Merchant Marine hero who lived a life of patriotism and selfless service. He demonstrated the best of American leadership in difficult circumstances and brought true honor to the country he loved.

As we celebrate America during this year’s 4th of July, let us remember the legacy of Capt. Leonard LaRue, an American hero who courageously led the Ship of Miracles.

Highlighting Our Heroes