UNITED STATES SHIP
Thresher
(SSN 593)

In Memoriam
April 10, 1963


Donald James McCordDonald James McCord

Machinist's Mate First Class

UNITED STATES NAVY

Donald James McCord was born on September 20, 1930, in Hammond, Ind., the son of Mrs. Edna Leona McCord and the late Howard McCord.

During his school years in Hammond and Morocco, Ind., Donald was a member of the basketball and track teams, and pursued his hobbies of hunting and fishing.

On November 7, 1947, Donald enlisted in the Navy, and underswent his recruit training at the Navy's Recruit Training Center at Great Lakes, Ill.  He volunteered for submarine duty and was enrolled as a student in the U.S. Naval Submarine School at New London, Conn.

Donald was graduated on February 28, 1948, and assigned to the U.S.S. Runner (SS 476).  In early 1949, he became qualified in submarines, and was awarded his silver dolphins.  He subsequently saw service in the submarines U.S.S. Burrfish (SS 312), and U.S.S. Trumpetfish (SS 425), prior to being accepted for advanced training in nuclear power.  He completed the year-long course of instruction at the Nuclear Power Training Units at both New London and Windsor Locks, Conn.

On April 16, 1962 Donald received orders to his first nuclear-powered submarine, U.S.S. Thresher (SSN 593), and while a member of the crew he was presented a letter of commendation from the commanding officer for his outstanding performance of duty.  Donald also earned the Navy's Good Conduct Medal for his excellent conduct.

He is survived by his widow, the former Amy C. Murphy; three sons, Donald J., Jr., Michael T. and Scott A.; and his mother, Mrs. Edna Leona McCord Griffith.


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