Douglas Legate Howard

Douglas Legate Howard (February 11, 1885 – December 14, 1936) was a career naval officer and the head coach of the United States Naval Academy football team from 1911 until 1914.

Early life
Howard, the eldest son of Admiral Thomas Benton Howard, was born on February 11, 1885 in Annapolis, Maryland.

Coaching career
As a Lieutenant, Howard was named the 14th head football coach for the United States Naval Academy Midshipmen located in Annapolis, Maryland and he held that position for four seasons, from 1911 until 1914. His coaching record at United States Naval Academy was 25 wins, 7 losses, and 4 ties. As of the conclusion of the 2007 season, this ranks him seventh at United States Naval Academy in total wins and sixth at United States Naval Academy in winning percentage (.750).

Naval career
Howard was a member of the U.S. Naval Academy class of 1906. He was commanding officer of USS Drayton (DD-23), USS Rowan (DD-64), and USS Bell (DD-95) during World War I.

Navy Cross
Howard was awarded the Navy Cross for his distinguished service on patrol and convoy escort duty in waters infested with submarines and mines.

Death and honors
Howard retired in 1933 and died at Annapolis on December 14, 1936. USS Douglas L. Howard (DE-138) was named in his honor. The ship was launched 24 January 1943 by Consolidated Steel Corp., Ltd., Orange, Texas; sponsored by Mrs. D. I. Thomas, daughter of Captain Howard; and commissioned 29 July 1943, Lieutenant Commander G. D. Kissam, USNR, in command.