Remembering Ralph Clark Huston, Jr.

 


 

Today, we honor the memory of Ralph Clark Huston, Jr., a courageous submariner who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving aboard USS Cobia during World War II. Today would have been Ralph's 99th birthday.
 
Ralph was born on September 27, 1925, in Parkersburg, West Virginia. He attended Parkersburg High School, where he played football and aspired to become an auto mechanic. After working at a local service station, Ralph enlisted in the Navy on October 2, 1943. He received training at Great Lakes, Illinois, and Groton, Connecticut, specializing in torpedoes. His first assignment was aboard USS Bashaw (SS 241) for training, and he was later transferred to USS Cobia on February 11, 1945. Tragically, just 15 days later, Ralph was shot during a surface gun battle and died the following morning. The crew honored him with full military honors, and he was buried at sea. Ralph remains the only Cobia crew member killed in action during WWII.
 
To honor Ralph and his fellow crew members, we’re launching a special one-day fundraising campaign in his honor. We are seeking $99 donations to support the USS Cobia Dry Dock Fund. This fund will help cover the essential preventative maintenance needed for Cobia’s upcoming dry docking in September 2025. Your contribution will play a vital role in preserving not only Ralph’s legacy but also the rich history of the USS Cobia and her crew.
 
How You Can Help:
  • Donate $99: Your contribution will assist in preserving USS Cobia, ensuring that Ralph’s legacy and the history of his service live on.
  • Spread the Word: Share this campaign with friends and family to help us reach more supporters.
 
By contributing to this campaign, you help ensure that the history of the USS Cobia and the bravery of her crew remain alive in our collective memory.
 
Thank you for your continued support and for joining us in this important tribute.
 
With gratitude,
Karen Duvalle
Submarine Curator