D. M. Ulmer

Author D. M. Ulmer enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1947. In two-years, he was promoted to third class electronic technician onboard the submarine USS CLAMAGORE. Six months later, he was advised he’d be transferred to the Naval Academy Prep School. When Ulmer asked his captain “why me?” the skipper replied facetiously, "I don't think you're smart enough to make second class and I need the bunk space!"

Ulmer returned to CLAMAGORE in 1967 as Commanding Officer. He then became one of the few, if not only, to have served in an enlisted status and as commanding officer in the same warship.

Captain Ulmer’s 32-year U.S. Navy Career included:

1949

German submarine U-2513;

Given to the US Navy in 1945

as partial reparation for WWII.

Mar. – Sept. 1949

USS Clamagore (SS 343).

1954

US Naval Academy graduate.

July 1954 – 55

USS Fremont (APA 44).

July – 55

US Navy Officers’ Submarine School.

Jan. 1956 – June 58

USS Halfbeak (SS 352).

June 1958 – Sept 59

USS Barracuda (SSK1).

1959 – 60

Aide to Commandant

8th Naval District.

July – Oct. 1960

Polaris Weapons School

Dam Neck, VA.

Dec. 1960 – July 62

USS Patrick Henry (SSBN 599).

1963 – 65

Staff, Commander Submarine

Squadron 14.

Nov. 1965 – July 67

Executive Officer

USS Corporal (SS 346).

July 1967 – Mar. 69

Commanding Officer

USS Clamagore (SS 343).

1969 – 72

Office of

Chief of Naval Operations.

1972 –77

Naval Sea Systems Command.

1977 – 79

Trident Project Manager Staff.

April, 1979 – Retired .

After a 32 year Career in The US Navy Submarine Service, D. M. Ulmer was employed by the Boeing Company (1979-96). He currently volunteers at Overlake Hospital Medical Center and the Seattle Museum of Flight.