Frank Wesley Fenno Jr.

Early life and education Fenno was born March 15, 1909, in Westminster, Massachusetts. He attended Fitchburg High School before continuing his studies at the University of Maine. In 1921, he entered the U.S. Naval Academy, from which he graduated in 1925.

Career

Early career Fenno graduated from the Naval Academy in 1925, marking the beginning of his naval career. He initially served at the Boston Navy Yard and subsequently joined the crew of the and later the . Fenno's dedication and talent caught the attention of his superiors, and he was selected to attend the submarine training course at New London, Connecticut.

At the start of the war, Fenno was serving as the commanding officer of the USS Trout and led her on her first four war patrols. However, it was during the Trout'''s second war patrol that Fenno embarked on an unusual and hazardous mission. He was tasked with delivering much-needed antiaircraft shells to the hard-pressed forces on Corregidor. Recognizing an opportunity to further contribute to the war effort, Fenno devised a plan. In addition to delivering the ammunition, the Trout would pick up a load of torpedoes and fuel at Corregidor and conduct a patrol through Formosa Strait and the lower reaches of the East China Sea on its way back to Pearl Harbor. Under Fenno's careful supervision, the precious cargo was transferred to the Trout during the night, with five hundred and eighty-three gold bars and eighteen tons of silver coins stacked in the bilges. Fenno signed a receipt acknowledging the transfer.

Fenno's exceptional performance as the commanding officer of the Trout following his second war patrol led to him receiving two additional Navy Crosses. He also earned a third Navy Cross for his successful war patrol while commanding the USS Runner''.

In addition to his submarine commands, Fenno served as Commander of a coordinated attack group of submarines from May to June 1944 called "Fenno's Ferrets", earning the Silver Star for his leadership role.

Fenno later commanded Submarine Division 201 and Submarine Squadron 24 from September 1943 to September 1945. His executive and administrative abilities significantly contributed to the success of these units, for which he was awarded the Legion of Merit.

Post-World War II After World War II, Fenno continued his naval career. He served as Commander of the U.S. Naval Base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, from November 1958 to October 1960. His leadership during this period of political tension and instability in Cuba earned him a second Legion of Merit.

Fenno retired from the Navy with the rank of Rear Admiral.

Death Fenno died on August 16, 1973. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery.