VADM Bernard L. Austin, USN

Class of 1922

Hometown: Wagener, SC

Distinguished Alumnus Photo

  • Austin attended The Citadel for two years before graduating from the US Naval Academy in 1924.  His Naval career spanned World War II, Korea, and the Cold War, and included command of the US Second Fleet
  • President of the Naval War College 1960-1964
  • Awarded 2 Navy Cross's for "extraordinary heroism" in WWII.  Austin's first Navy Cross was awarded for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Commander, Destroyer Division Forty-Six in action against enemy forces at Emperor Augusta Bay off Bougainville, Solomon Island 1-2 November 1943.  Austin received a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Navy Cross awarded for extraordinary heroism during action against enemy force at Cape St. George, Solomon Islands.