Riley Franklin McConnell

Riley Franklin McConnell, born 22 July 1884 at Gate City, Virginia, graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy 7 June 1909.

U.S. Navy Career

For over three decades he carried out a wide variety of assignments. During World War I he served as navigator in USS Arkansas (BB-33); later, he had duty as executive officer in USS Ohio (BB-12), USS Relief (AH-1), and USS Chicago (CA-29); and in 1935 and 1936 he commanded USS Milwaukee (CL-5). Following instruction at the Naval War College, he served on the staff of Commander in Chief, Asiatic Fleet, between 1925 and 1927. Commissioned captain 1 September 1934, he returned to the Asiatic Fleet and served as Chief of Staff from 30 October 1936 to 25 July 1939.

Awarded Navy Cross

For distinguished service during this period, he received the Navy Cross. He assumed command of the Naval Training Station at San Diego, California, 22 August 1939 and died while on active duty there 12 July 1940.

Namesake

The USS McConnell (DE-163) launched on 28 March 1943, sponsored by Mrs. Grace Otteson McConnell, and commissioned at Brooklyn Navy Yard 28 May 1943, was so named in his honor.

References

* [http://www.history.navy.mil/danfs/m7/mcconnell.htm McConnell]