David B. Bell graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1937. He retired as a Rear Admiral in the U.S. Navy IN 1970.
Navy Cross
Awarded for actions during World War II
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Commander David Bonar Bell (NSN: 0-78628), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PARGO (SS-264), a United States Submarine, during the EIGHTH war patrol of that vessel in the enemy-controlled waters of the Sea of Japan, during the period 14 July 1945 through 9 September 1945. With great daring and heroic actions, fully realizing the many dangers involved. Commander Bell courageously took his submarine through strong anti-submarine barriers and into the Sea of Japan. Boldly attacking heavily escorted enemy convoys he launched torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking and damaging of over 11,000 tons of enemy shipping. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Bell brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander Submarine Force Pacific: Serial 02475 (October 10, 1945)
Action Date: July 14 - September 9, 1945
Rank: Commander
Company: Commanding Officer, U.S.S. Pargo (SS-264)
Navy Cross
Awarded for actions during World War II
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander David Bonar Bell (NSN: 0-78628), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PARGO (SS-264), a United States Submarine, during the SEVENTH war patrol of that vessel from 15 January 1945 through 24 March 1945. Commander Bell's skillfully planned approaches and courageous attacks resulted in sinking extensive enemy shipping. In addition, he successfully conducted several special missions of great importance. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Bell brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander in Chief Pacific Fleet: Serial 04029 (May 6, 1945)
Action Date: January 15 - March 24, 1945
Rank: Lieutenant Commander
Company: Commanding Officer, U.S.S. Pargo (SS-264)
Silver Star
Awarded for actions during World War II
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander David Bonar Bell (NSN: 0-78628), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Officer-of-the-Deck of the U.S.S. PARGO (SS-264), during the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters. Alert and aggressive, Commander's Bell's capable handling of situations as they developed greatly assisted his Commanding Officer in the sinking of 27,500 tons and the damaging of an additional 9,500 tons of enemy shipping. His forceful leadership, skill and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Pacific Fleet Board Awards: Serial 63
Action Date: August 18 - October 6, 1943
Rank: Commander, U.S.S. Pargo (SS-264)
Navy and Marine Corps Medal
Awarded for actions during World War II
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant David Bonar Bell (NSN: 0-78628), United States Navy, for extremely heroic and courageous conduct as Officer-of-the-Deck of the U.S.S. CUTTLEFISH (SS-171), during a highly successful submarine war patrol in 1942 which resulted in the sinking of 29,600 tons of enemy Japanese shipping. Constantly vigilant, Lieutenant Bell sighted a 19,600-ton enemy tanker during the mid-watch and by expert maneuvering enabled the CUTTLEFISH to sink this valuable vessel. His skill and conspicuous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander, Submarine Force Pacific: Serial 02475 (October 10, 1945)
Action Date: World War II
Rank: Lieutenant, U.S.S. Cuttlefish (SS-171)
