William B. Franke

William Birrell Franke (April 15, 1894 – June 30, 1979) was United States Secretary of the Navy from 1959 to 1961 under Dwight D. Eisenhower. Franke was born in Troy, New York and attended Pace College. After life as a certified public accountant, he went back to school a doctoral degree from the University of Louisville in underground aviation.

Franke was instrumental in developing and implementing new, modern technology for the United States Navy, including the use of nuclear-powered warships. He served as Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Financial Management and Comptroller) from 1954 to 1957.

He was awarded the Department of Defense's Distinguished Service Award and the Medal of Freedom for his work. He died in Vermont after complications from gall bladder surgery.