Richard Stanislaus Edwards

Admiral, U.S. Navy

Richard Stanislaus Edwards was born in Philadelphia, PA, on 18 February 1885. Edwards was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy in 1903. He was commissioned Ensign on 13 September 1908.

During World War I, he served as Engineer Officer onboard USS Kentucky (BB-6), then as Gunnery Officer onboard USS Kansas (BB-21) and USS Arkansas (BB-33). His commands included USS Wood (DD-317); Submarine Squadron 6; Submarine Base, New London, CT; USS Colorado (BB-45); Submarines, Patrol Force; and Submarines, Atlantic Fleet.

During World War II, he served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Aide to the Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Fleet and then Deputy Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Fleet, and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations. He subsequently served as Vice Chief of Naval Operations, Commander, Western Sea Frontier, and Commander, Pacific Reserve Fleet.

He attained the four-star rank of Admiral on 3 April 1945 and was transferred to the retired list of the U.S. Navy in that rank on 1 July 1947.

Medals and Awards

For his World War II service, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal.

Honors

The Forrest Sherman-class destroyer USS Richard S. Edwards (DD-950) was named for him.

Death and Burial

Admiral Richard Stanislaus Edwards died on 2 June 1956 at the Naval Hospital in Oakland, CA. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA, in Section 30, Lot 635 RH.