This is a large medal and patch group to a submariner who was probably a career sailor. Information on him is scarce. It appears that is legal name was J.C. Bufford.
In the collection are arm rockers for the following submarines: USS Bluegill, SS-242; USS Bluefin, SS-322; USS Cusk, SS-348; USS Wahoo, SS-565; USS Pomfret, SS-391; USS Tiru, SS-416; and USS Thomas Jefferson, SSBN 618. His named leather patch for the USS Dace accompanies the group. The nicely embroidered first missle patch from 1948 for the Cusk is also included. The Cusk was the first US missle carrying submarine.
Bufford's mounted medal group includes WW2 Victory medal, Asiatic/Pacific medal, American Campaign, National Defense, plus Korean Service medal. Ribbon bars are included. His single Good Conduct medal and UN Korea medal are included also. His nametags, "E" badge and Dolphins are also present.
If anyone has more information on Bufford's career, please contact me. Just talked with JC's grand daughter and she sent this picture of JC when was in the service. Updated 5/16/15.
