Eugene P. Wilkinson

Eugene P. Wilkinson was a pioneering United States Navy officer who became the first commanding officer of the world's first operational nuclear-powered submarine, . His historic command ushered in a new era of naval warfare and global strategic deterrence during the Cold War. Wilkinson's subsequent career was marked by key leadership roles in submarine development and fleet command, cementing his legacy as a central figure in the nuclear Navy.

Early life and education

Eugene Parks Wilkinson was born on August 10, 1918, in Long Beach, California. He received his early education in California before receiving an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He graduated and was commissioned as an ensign in 1940, joining the United States Pacific Fleet on the eve of World War II.

Naval career

Wilkinson's early service was aboard the destroyer and later the submarine . During the Pacific War, he served on multiple war patrols aboard *Drum*, participating in critical engagements against the Imperial Japanese Navy. After the war, he held various submarine commands and staff positions, including duty with the Military Sea Transportation Service. His expertise led to his selection for the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, overseen by then-Captain Hyman G. Rickover.

Command of USS Nautilus (SSN-571)

In 1953, Wilkinson was chosen to be the first commanding officer of , the revolutionary vessel built by General Dynamics' Electric Boat Division in Groton, Connecticut. On January 17, 1955, he sent the famous message "Underway on nuclear power," marking the start of a new age. Under his command, *Nautilus* shattered all existing submarine endurance and speed records, demonstrating capabilities that rendered conventional diesel-electric submarines obsolete and reshaping Anti-submarine warfare tactics for the Royal Navy and other allied forces.

Later service and retirement

After his historic tour on *Nautilus*, Wilkinson commanded Submarine Squadron 4 and served on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations. He later commanded Submarine Development Group 2, pioneering deep submergence and advanced tactical development. He achieved flag rank, serving as Commander of the United States First Fleet and later as Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Submarine Warfare. He retired from active duty in 1974 with the rank of vice admiral and later worked in the private sector for companies including General Dynamics.

Awards and honors

For his exceptional service, Wilkinson was awarded the Legion of Merit twice and the Bronze Star Medal, among other campaign and service medals. His most enduring honor remains his foundational role in the nuclear Navy; the headquarters building for the Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet in Pearl Harbor is named in his honor. He was inducted into the Naval Submarine League's Hall of Fame and is remembered as a pivotal figure in the history of naval nuclear propulsion.

Category:1918 births Category:2013 deaths Category:United States Navy vice admirals Category:United States Naval Academy alumni Category:American submariners