Robert M. La Prade


Robert Maitland La Prade was born August 4, 1916 at Kenedy, Texas. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rice Institute on June 1, 1942.

Marine Corps career

He served in the United States Army prior to enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps April 16, 1940. Commissioned First Lieutenant January 1, 1943 while serving in the Pacific campaign he died of wounds received in the action at Guadalcanal.

Awarded the Navy Cross

Lieutenant La Prade was awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism and outstanding courage during action against enemy Japanese Forces at Guadalcanal January 20, 1943.

Namesake

was named in his honor. She was laid down November 18, 1943 by Brown Shipbuilding Co., Houston, Texas; launched December 31, 1943; sponsored by Mrs. J. T. La Prade, mother of the late Lieutenant La Prade; and commissioned April 20, 1944, Lt. Comdr. C. M. Fellows in command.