Machinist's Mate Second Class

UNITED STATES NAVY

Richard Podwell was born on November 15, 1939, in Steubenville, Ohio, the son of Mrs. and Mrs. William F. Podwell.  During his school years in Ohio, Richard used much of his spare time by hunting, fishing, and pursuing his hobbies of collecting old silver dollars, and building various items.

He enlisted in the naval service on January 16, 1959, and received his basic training at the U.S. Naval Training Center, Great Lakes, Ill.  Completing his training, he was assigned to the amphibious force flagship, U.S.S. Mount McKinley (AGC 7).  He volunteered for submarine duty and entered the U.S. Naval Submarine School at New London, Conn.  Successfully completing the course, Richard was selected for further training in nuclear power.  He was graduated from the nuclear power training unit located at Idaho Falls, Idaho, on January 16, 1962, and assigned to his first submarine, U.S.S. Thresher (SSN 593).  He was awarded his silver dolphins, the ensignia of the qualified submariner on May 7, 1962.  He also received a letter of commendation for his outstanding performance during various ship trails in June 1962, from the commanding officer, and also earned the Navy's Good Conduct Medal.

In addition to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William F. Podwell of Toronto, Ohio, he is survived by his widow, Mrs. Leslie D. Podwell of Salt Lake City, Utah.