Captain Alan C. Bernard
United States Navy
Captain Bernard was born in Rapid City, South Dakota, and being the son of a naval officer, was raised in various areas of the country. Following graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1965, he attenend Nuclear Power Training in Mare Ilsand, California, and Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Submarine School in New London, Connecticut. In June 1966 he reported to USS PLUNGER (SSN 595) where he completed submarine qualifications and served in several division officer billets.
In 1969, Captain Bernard was transferred to the Precommissioning Unit SAND LANCE (SSN 660) where he served as Weapons Officer. Following shakedown in 1972, he was assigned to USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (SSBN 602) as Navigator where he completed post overhaul shakedown and two patrols. His next assignment was as Assistant Operations Officer on the staff of Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet.
Capatain Bernard was assigned as Executive Officer in 1977 to USS VON STEUBEN (SSBN 632) where he completed three patrols and a refueling overhaul.
In 1982, he assumed command of USS GEORGE BANCROFT (SSBN 643) (BLUE) and completed seven patrols. During his command tour, the BANCROFT earned two consecutive Battle Efficiency “E” Awards and was presented with the U.S. Atlantic Fleet Outstanding Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarine Award for 1985. Captain Bernard served for two years as Deputy commander for Readiness and Training on the staff of Commander, Submarine Squadron 14, in Holy Loch, Schotland. Captain Bernard reported to the USS HENRY M. JACKSON (SSBN 730) (GOLD) in June 1988. During the next two years, JACKSON (GOLD) successfully completed four TRIDENT strategic Deterrent patrols.
Captain Bernard’s awards include the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Navy Commendation Medal.
