Joseph Clark, Bronze, c. 1952. Courtesy Oklahoma Hall of Fame Archives.
Joseph J. Clark
(1893 - 1971)
Profession: Military
Hometown: Pryor
Inducted: 1952
Admiral Joseph Clark's service left an impactful legacy in the military world. Born near Pryor in the Cherokee Nation, Clark attended Oklahoma A&M, now Oklahoma State University, where he played on the lacrosse and soccer teams. Clark became the United States Naval Academy's first Native American graduate and was commissioned as an ensign in 1917. His nickname "Jocko" originated from his early days at the Naval Academy. In 1925 he graduated as a naval aviation specialist to develop offensive naval air power. Clark commanded the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10), which became the setting for the documentary The Fighting Lady.
During World War II, he commanded the USS Hornet (CV-12) and was referred as the "Patton of the Pacific" for his service. After serving in World War II, Clark remained in the Navy as a Commander and as an instructor at the Naval Academy.
During the Korean War, Clark commanded the Fast Carrier Task Force (TF 77) and was promoted to Vice Admiral. On December 1, 1953, Clark retired from the Navy with the rank of Full Admiral after a 40- year career. He lived in New York City where he was chairman of Hegeman-Harris, Inc., a construction and investment corporation. For his military career, Clark was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal, the Navy Cross, the Silver Star, and the Legion of Merit. Clark was made honorary chief of both the Sioux and Cherokee nations for his dedication and military service. In 1980 the navy named a guided-missile frigate, the USS Clark (FFG-11), in his honor.