Oscar C. Badger was born on June 26, 1890, in Washington, D.C. He came from a family with a strong naval background as his father, Charles J. Badger, was also an admiral in the U.S. Navy. Growing up in Washington, Oscar developed a deep respect for the military and knew from an early age that he wanted to follow in his father's footsteps.
Badger joined the U.S. Navy and quickly rose through the ranks, showing great skill and dedication to his duties. He first gained recognition for his bravery during the 1914 Battle of Veracruz, Mexico, where he earned the prestigious Medal of Honor for his valor in combat. Badger was part of a group of 500 marines who landed on Mexican shores to remove General Victoriano Huerta from power, a mission that was successfully accomplished thanks to their efforts.
During World War I, Badger served with a destroyer force in Europe, where he distinguished himself in several naval battles. His strategic acumen and leadership abilities caught the attention of his superiors, leading to rapid promotions within the Navy.
After the end of World War I, Badger continued to excel in his military career, taking on various command roles and further honing his skills as a naval officer. He continued to rise through the ranks, earning the respect of his peers and superiors alike.
When World War II broke out, Badger was given command of the battleship USS North Carolina, where he played a crucial role in several key naval operations. His strategic thinking and decisive actions on the battlefield contributed significantly to the Allied victory in the Pacific theater.
Badger's exemplary service during World War II led to his promotion to the rank of Assistant Chief of Naval Operations, where he played a key role in shaping naval strategy and coordinating military operations. His leadership was instrumental in ensuring the success of Allied forces in the later stages of the war.
Oscar C. Badger's legacy as a U.S. Navy war hero continues to inspire generations of naval officers and sailors. His dedication to duty, bravery in combat, and leadership under pressure set a standard of excellence that still resonates in the Navy today.