Quick Facts
Biography
Howard Franklin Clark was born in Wilmington, Delaware, 15 September 1914.
Navy career
Clark graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy 2 June 1938. He served at sea until 1940, when he underwent flight training. Reporting to aircraft carrier Lexington (CV-2) 1 April 1941 as a member of Fighter Squadron 3, he won a Distinguished Flying Cross 20 February 1942 when he brought down an enemy bomber attempting to attack the carrier.
Awarded second Distinguished Flying Cross
During the Battle of the Coral Sea, Clark again and again engaged enemy aircraft, in utter disregard of his own safety, until his plane was shot down. Lieutenant (j.g.) Clark was posthumously awarded a second Distinguished Flying Cross for his heroism during the battle, 7–8 May 1942.
Namesake
Howard F. Clark (DE-533) was launched by the Boston Navy Yard 8 November 1943; sponsored by Mrs. Howard Clark, widow of the namesake; and commissioned at Boston 25 May 1944, Lt. Comdr. E. B. Hayden in command.