Four Generations of Service: The Legacy Behind the Flatley Heroes Raffle
For four generations, the Flatley family has answered the call to serve. From the cockpit of a World War II fighter aircraft to the flight deck of an aircraft carrier to the decks of Patriots Point and beyond.
The story begins with Vice Admiral James “Jimmy” H. Flatley Jr., one of the U.S. Navy's most accomplished WWII naval aviators.
In 1942, Flatley became the leader of Fighting Squadron 10, known as the “Grim Reapers.” He later became Commander of Air Group 5 aboard the USS Yorktown, where he helped introduce the F6F Hellcat into combat, and made the very first carrier landing aboard The Fighting Lady on May 6, 1943. A decorated Navy fighter ace, Flatley received the Navy Cross, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, a Bronze Star and the Navy Distinguished Service Medal.
But his legacy was about more than flying. Flatley once said of naval leadership, “your first and greatest responsibility - your first and greatest challenge - is how to inspire your men.” That philosophy would continue through the generations that followed.
James H. Flatley Jr.'s son, Rear Admiral James H. Flatley III, built an extraordinary naval career of his own.
A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and a naval aviator, Admiral Flatley flew more than 4,460 hours in more than 30 different aircraft and completed 1,608 carrier-arrested landings. He served in combat during three Vietnam War deployments, flying 346 combat missions, and went on to command multiple squadrons, air wings, ships and carrier groups.
But his leadership was perhaps most evident during his combat career.
As commanding officer of Fighter Squadron 31 aboard the USS Saratoga, then-Commander Flatley led his squadron through 2,200 combat missions without the loss of a person or aircraft. During a particularly intense 1972 strike against heavily defended targets in North Vietnam, he led a 45-plane strike and was awarded the Silver Star for his leadership.
After retiring from active duty, Admiral Flatley brought that same leadership to Patriots Point.
From 1994 to 2000, he served as Executive Director of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, laying the foundation for long-term growth of the museum and helping establish the USS Yorktown Foundation as the nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds to support Patriots Point.
His connection to the Yorktown continued through his service on the USS Yorktown Foundation Board, where he remained committed to preserving the stories and experiences of those who served, until his passing in December 2025.
“Service has been a defining thread in our family for generations. The example set by my father and grandfather instilled in me a deep love of country and a commitment to serving others. I’m especially proud to see that spirit continue to inspire the next generation. Their legacy reminds us that service to our nation is both an honor and a privilege.” -- James “Seamus” Flatley, IV
The Flatley family's commitment to service did not end with Admiral Flatley.
His sons, James “Seamus” Henry Flatley, IV and Joseph F. Flatley, both became Navy fighter pilots, while his daughter Kara Brophy served as an officer in the Navy Supply Corps. Seven of his grandchildren also serve in various capacities in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.
Today, Seamus continues to carry the Flatley Family legacy forward.
A retired Navy F-14 fighter pilot, TOPGUN graduate and current USS Yorktown Foundation Board member, Seamus represents another generation of the family's commitment to service. Like his father and grandfather before him, he has chosen to remain connected to the Yorktown and to the mission of preserving the stories of those who served. One day, he will pass the torch to his children, nieces, and nephews who are already training in the wings.
The Flatley legacy is ultimately about more than four generations of military service. It is about a belief in leadership, sacrifice, and the responsibility each generation has to protect and preserve America’s freedom.
We invite you to join us in honoring the Flatley family and their extraordinary legacy of service through the Flatley Heroes Raffle.
More than just a fundraiser, the raffle supports the USS Yorktown Foundation's mission to preserve the historic ships and aircraft at Patriots Point, provide educational opportunities for students, and ensure the stories of America's service members continue to inspire future generations.
By purchasing a raffle ticket, you're not only entering for a chance to win cash prizes—you're helping carry forward Admiral Flatley's commitment to service, leadership, and preserving our nation's history.