Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
Lawrence
George
Bernard
1914-02-09

–

1997-03-29

Home:

Deadwood

, 

South Dakota

Lawrence Bernard graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1937. He retired as a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Puffer (SS-268)

    Action Date:

    September 7 – October 17, 1943
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 0772 (April 27, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to Lieutenant Commander Lawrence George Bernard, United States Navy, for heroic service as Diving Officer on board the U.S.S. PUFFER (SS-268), during the FIRST War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy-controlled waters from 7 September to 17 October 1943. When his ship was endangered by temporary loss of depth control caused by damage from enemy anti-submarine measures, Lieutenant Commander Bernard skillfully effected restoration of control and maintained it for a period of thirty-one hours until the vessel was brought to the surface and into port. His outstanding efficiency and unwavering devotion to duty throughout the operations were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant]

    Division:

    U.S.S. S-39 (SS-144)

    Action Date:

    World War II
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 01454 (July 17, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] Lawrence George Bernard (NSN: 0-78614), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy during three War Patrols of the U.S.S. S-39 (SS-144), in enemy controlled waters, while serving as Diving Officer and Executive Officer of that Submarine. In the face of vigorous enemy countermeasures his vessel attacked and sank an armed auxiliary in Philippine waters, and later a large naval tanker in the Java Sea. He, by his expert depth control during and after these attacks, rendered inestimable assistance to his Commanding Officer in their execution, and were largely responsible for the safety of his vessel. His actions and conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.