Eugene Bennett Fluckey

Eugene Bennett Fluckey (1913-2007) was a highly decorated United States Navy rear admiral and submarine commander during World War II. Nicknamed "Lucky Fluckey," he became one of the most successful submariners in American history. He is best known for his command of the USS Barb (SS-220) during its last five war patrols in the Pacific Theater. Under his leadership, the Barb earned a reputation for aggressive and innovative tactics, sinking numerous enemy vessels and contributing significantly to the Allied war effort against Japan.

Fluckey's command was distinguished by his bold and unconventional strategies. On his 11th patrol, for which he received the Medal of Honor, he navigated the Barb through a heavily mined and patrolled strait to attack a large convoy, sinking several ships before making a daring escape. His tactics often involved surface attacks at night, a high-risk maneuver that maximized speed and surprise. In a particularly audacious action, Fluckey's crew became the only U.S. military force to conduct a land combat operation on the Japanese home islands during the war, when a team of saboteurs from the Barb went ashore to destroy a railroad train.

For his extraordinary heroism and leadership, Fluckey was awarded the Medal of Honor and four Navy Crosses, making him one of the most decorated naval officers of the war. After World War II, he continued his naval career, holding various important commands and staff positions, including serving as an aide to Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz and commanding the Submarine Force, Atlantic Fleet. He retired from the Navy in 1972 with the rank of rear admiral. Fluckey's legacy is that of a brilliant and courageous warrior who pushed the boundaries of submarine warfare and inspired generations of naval officers.