Born Feb 15, 1915 in Norman, Oklahoma. Silver Star Citation:FIRST LIEUTENANT JOHN R. DURKEE JR., (Army Serial Number 01178461), Field Artillery (Armored), Headquarters Battery, 128th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, United States Army. For gallantry in action in the vicinity of Evran, France on 3 August 1944. When his and another liaison plane landed in a field and received enemy mortar and small arms fire, the small field prevented both planes from taking off simultaniously. Electing to remain until the another plane had cleared from the field, the enemy closed in on him making it impossible for him to take off. Spurning his chances to escape afoot, he remained in defense his plane. His gallantry in the face of tremendous odds, although it cost him his life, reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Army. Entered the military service from Oklahoma.