Born in Makow, Russia, now Poland. Married Ruth D. Masters in December 1922. They had one son. Married Eleonore Ann Bednowicz in 1974. Received B.S. from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1922. Received M.S. from Columbia University in 1929.

Commissioned ensign in the United States Navy in 1922. He served aboard the submarine S-48. That number has a special significance to some collectors of large cents. He rose through the ranks to Admiral in 1973. Assigned to atomic submarine project with AEC in 1946. Responsible for development of the first nuclear powered submarine, the Nautilus. He served on active duty for 63 years.

He received many honors. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1980. In 1982 he was named the Father of the Nuclear Navy. He died in Arlington, Virginia.

Rickover was the subject of two Congressional gold medals. An act of Congress August 19, 1958, honored his achievement in the practical use of atomic energy. The obverse, designed by Frank Gasparro, shows the title of Vice Admiral Hyman G. Rickover. The reverse was by Gilroy Roberts. Copies of the 3 inch bronze medal (USM 533) were sold to the public.

Another act of Congress dated June 23, 1982, honored him for distinguished contributions to the defense of the nation. The medal was presented November 1, 1983. The obverse shows the title of Admiral Hyman G. Rickover. Design was by Michael Iacocco. Copies of the 39 mm bronze medal (USM 536) were sold to the public.

bio: AMWS 82P; CBY 1953; ConAut 119; Failor; IntWW 83; WAB; WWWA-9

obit: NYT 7/9/86