Bontier, Albert Marion, CDR

The USS Seawolf (SS-197) began her last war patrol on 21 September 1944. On 29 September, she reached Manus Island in northern Papua New Guinea and sailed the same day carrying stores and Army personnel to the east coast of Samar. The last contact from her was on 3 October 1944. On 28 December 1944, the Seawolf was announced overdue from patrol and presumed lost. Commander Bontier was listed as missing in action and later declared dead on 7 October 1945.

Service number: 074825

Silver Star
Awarded for Actions During World War II
Service: Navy
Rank: Lieutenant
Division: U.S.S. Spearfish (SS-190)
General Orders: Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 01090 (June 11, 1946)
Citation: The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Albert Marion Bontier (NSN: 0-74825), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties as Assistant Approach Officer in the U.S.S. SPEARFISH (SS-190), during the THIRD War Patrol of that Submarine in the Southwest Pacific Area from 27 March 1942 to 20 May 1942. His excellent judgment and thorough knowledge of attack problems assisted his Commanding Officer in conducting attacks which resulted in the sinking of two enemy ships, totaling 10,000 tons. In addition, he assisted considerably in completing a special mission where many military and naval personnel were rescued from an island fortress under constant enemy attack. His coolness and high devotion to duty contributed directly to the success of his vessel in evading severe enemy countermeasures. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to all with whom he served, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.