Aubrey J. Sanders of Missouri entered active duty as a member of the U.S. Navy on Dec. 2, 1940. He attended a number of Navy schools and was trained to enter the submarine service as an Electrician's Mate First Class. After training, he was assigned to the submarine U.S.S. Pintado SS-387 and participated in three combat patrols aboard it.

Letter of Commendation

While serving aboard the U.S.S. Pintado SS-387 in 1944, Sanders received a letter of commendation personally signed by Adm. Chester W. Nimitz. The citation letter reads: "For distinguishing himself by meritorious conduct in the performance of his duties as a member of the crew in a United States submarine during a war patrol of that vessel. His skill and devotion to duty during aggressive torpedo attacks on enemy shipping contributed materially to his vessel’s success in sinking enemy ships totaling over 30,000 tons and damaging an additional enemy shipping of over 6,000 tons. His efficiency and coolness during severe enemy counter-measures greatly assisted the ship in conducting successful evasive tactics. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to all of whom he served, and in keeping with the highest traditions of the naval service." 

Rising Through Ranks

After World War II, Sanders stayed on with the U.S. submarine service through the late 1950s and rose to the rank of Chief Electrician's Mate. He served on a number of other submarine,s including: U.S.S. Chanticleer ASR-7, U.S.S. Trumpetfish SS-401, U.S.S. Cobbler SS-344, U.S.S. Sea Dog SS-401, U.S.S. Kittiwake ASR-13, U.S.S. Sea Leopard SS-483, and U.S.S. Odax SS-484.   

Our Collection

The Michigan Traveling Military Museum is pleased to have and display Chief Electrician's Mate Aubrey J. Sanders' Submarine Service Grouping. This excellent grouping includes his uniform, medal and insignia grouping, and military paperwork collection. He was a proud member of the U.S. Navy Submarine Service.