Hubert Paul Chatelain

Hubert Paul Chatelain, born in Mansura, Louisiana, February 11, 1917, enlisted in the United States Navy July 10, 1935. As gunner's mate first class serving in USS South Dakota (BB-57), Chatelain was killed in action October 26, 1942 during the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands. For his great bravery as captain of a 40 mm gun mount during the battle, he was posthumously awarded the Silver Star Medal. The USS Chatelain (DE-149) was named in his honor. The ship was launched April 21, 1943 by Consolidated Steel Corp. of Texas, Orange, Texas; sponsored by Mrs. L. T. Chatelain; commissioned September 22, 1943, Lieutenant Commander J. L. Foley in command; and reported to the Atlantic Fleet.