Petition seeks to name submarine after ‘The Silent Service’s First Hero’
Putnam, Conn. — A nationwide campaign is underway to honor Henry Breault, the only enlisted submariner to receive the Medal of Honor, by naming a Virginia-class submarine after him. Breault’s heroic actions during a 1923 submarine disaster near the Panama Canal saved the lives of his shipmates, and a ceremony on March 8 will commemorate the 101st anniversary of his award.
Heroic Sacrifice in 1923
Henry Breault’s story began in Putnam, Connecticut, where he was born on October 14, 1900. His legacy was cemented on October 28, 1923, when the USS O-5 sank after a collision with a commercial steamship. As the submarine began to descend, Breault faced a critical decision: escape through the access hatch or ensure the safety of his trapped shipmate. He chose the latter, sealing the hatch to prevent flooding and returning to the torpedo room to assist his fellow sailor, Lawrence Brown.
Breault’s selfless act was a split-second decision that ultimately saved both their lives. They waited for 31 hours in the submerged chamber until rescuers could reach them. The Navy had no established escape procedures at the time, making Breault’s actions even more remarkable. When they were finally rescued, Brown credited Breault with saving his life, highlighting the profound impact of Breault’s bravery.
Commemoration and Recognition
On March 8, 2024, Putnam will celebrate “Henry Breault Day” to honor the submariner’s legacy. The event will take place at Veterans Park, coinciding with the anniversary of Breault receiving the Medal of Honor from President Calvin Coolidge in 1924. Brian Maynard, a former commander of American Legion Post 13 and a founding member of the Henry Breault Association, emphasized the significance of Breault’s achievements, stating, “For Putnam, it’s a remarkable honor, because there’s no other town that can claim this.”
In addition to local recognition, a coalition of over 2,200 supporters is petitioning the U.S. Navy to name a Virginia-class submarine the USS Henry Breault. This effort has garnered signatures from across the country, reflecting a unified desire to honor Breault’s contributions to the Navy and submarine service.
A Lasting Legacy
Breault’s service continued after the O-5 incident, as he received the Yangtze Service Medal and served in China during a tumultuous period. However, his health declined after being disqualified from submarine service due to an eye exam. He passed away in 1941 at the age of 41, with medical records indicating he suffered from severe health issues related to his earlier experiences.
Despite his significant contributions, Breault’s story faded from public memory until a renewed effort in 2000 sought to incorporate him into the Navy’s submarine heritage. While there are memorials in his honor, including a pier at Pearl Harbor, no naval vessel has been named after him. The current petition aims to rectify this oversight, ensuring that Breault’s legacy is recognized and celebrated for generations to come.
Community Support and Future Aspirations
Ryan Walker, an adjunct naval history professor and author of a book on Breault’s life, has been instrumental in the petition drive. He believes that naming a submarine after Breault would not only honor his bravery but also inspire future generations of sailors. “Breault personifies the principles of ‘ship, shipmate, self,’ and the fighting spirit of the Navy,” Walker stated. “His actions exemplify the commitment to duty and sacrifice that defines the submarine force.”
The campaign to name a submarine after Breault is more than just a tribute; it represents a collective acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by submariners throughout history. As the petition gains momentum, supporters hope it will lead to a lasting recognition of Breault’s heroism and the values he embodied.
