Douglas Legate Howard


Douglas Legate Howard was an American naval officer and the head coach of the United States Naval Academy football team from 1911 until 1914.

Early life

Howard, the eldest son of Admiral Thomas Benton Howard, was born on February 11, 1885 in Annapolis, Maryland.

Coaching career

As a Lieutenant, Howard was named the 14th head football at the United States Naval Academy and he held that position for four seasons, from 1911 until 1914. His coaching record at Navy was 25–7–4.

Naval career

Howard was a member of the U.S. Naval Academy class of 1906. He was commanding officer of USS Drayton, USS Rowan, and USS Bell during World War I.

Navy Cross

Howard was awarded the Navy Cross for his distinguished service on patrol and convoy escort duty in waters infested with submarines and mines.

Death and honors

Howard retired in 1933 and died at Annapolis on December 14, 1936. USS Douglas L. Howard was named in his honor. The ship was launched 24 January 1943 by Consolidated Steel Corp., Ltd., Orange, Texas; sponsored by Mrs. D. I. Thomas, daughter of Captain Howard; and commissioned 29 July 1943, Lieutenant Commander G. D. Kissam, USNR, in command.

Head coaching record