Baumer, Kenneth Ripley, GM3c

The USS Albacore (SS-218) began a patrol on October 24, 1944, and refueled at Midway Island on October 28th. There was no further contact with the boat after that date. Japanese records report a submarine exploding as the result of contact with a mine on November 7, 1944 and the Albacore was presumed lost on December 21st 1944. Gunner's Mate Second Class Baumer was listed as Missing in Action and officially declared dead 13 December 1945.

Service number: 6221207

Presidential Unit Citation
The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Presidential Unit Citation to the United States Ship Albacore (SS 218) for service as set forth in the following citation:
For extraordinary heroism in action against enemy Japanese shipping and combatant units during her Second War Patrol in the New Guinea Area from November 11 to December 30, 1942; her Third War Patrol in the Admiralty Islands from January 20 to March 11, 1943; her Eighth War Patrol north of the Bismark Archipelago from December 26,1943 to February 22,1944; her Ninth War Patrol west of the Marianas from May 29 to July 16, 1944. By aggressive and tenacious area coverage, the USS Albacore made contact on a speeding major enemy task force and, defying numerous destroyers and hostile aircraft which screened the valuable Fleet units on every quarter and the inevitable countermeasures, pressed home her attack. Brilliantly maneuvering between the menacing escorts to reach the center of the powerful enemy group, the Albacore, despite a last minute breakdown of vital fire control equipment, launched her torpedoes and demolished a 29,800 ton aircraft carrier. Skillfully evading severe counterattacks, this gallant fighting ship returned to inflict further crippling blows against the enemy by sinking seven ships, including a light cruiser and two destroyers, for a total of nearly 50,000 tons. The courage and steadfast devotion to duty of the Albacore's valiant officers and men reflected in this outstanding combat record and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

For the President
James Forrestal
Secretary of the Navy