Harry F. Bauer

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Harry Frederick Bauer (17 July 1904 – 5 September 1942) was an officer in the United States Navy.

Born at Camp Thomas in Lytle, Georgia, Bauer graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1927. During the early part of his career he served at shore stations, including a tour as instructor at the Naval Academy, and in USS Twiggs (DD-127), USS Cuyama (AO-3), and USS Tracy (DD-214).

Bauer was commissioned Lieutenant Commander 1 July 1941 and took command of fast transport USS Gregory (APD-3) 1 January 1942. While acting as combat transports for Marines off Guadalcanal during the night of 4-5 September 1942, Gregory and USS Little (APD-4) were surprised by three Japanese destroyers covering a small troop landing. Though outgunned, the two transports fought before being sunk. Bauer was badly wounded, and while being pulled clear by two of his crew ordered them to rescue another man crying out for assistance. Lt. Comdr. Bauer was lost, receiving the Silver Star posthumously for his gallantry. His marker is located in the Memorial Section, Arlington National Cemetery, to the south of the Unknowns Tomb. His wife, Gladys B. Bauer passed away in 1985. He is survived by one child.

USS Harry F. Bauer (DM-26) was named for him.

This article includes text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.