CDR Gilmore was the first U.S. submariner to receive the Medal of Honor in World War II. He was awarded this medal for his actions while serving as Commanding Officer of USS GROWLER.

On February 7 GROWLER sighted a ship in the murky darkness. CDR Gilmore readied torpedoes and closed for an attack. At a range of approximately 2000 yards, the target, the 2,500 ton patrol boat HAYASAKI, spotted GROWLER. The swift ship reversed course and charged the submarine. Gunfire and the groans of the twisted hulls roared in the night. CDR Gilmore, the last man on the bridge, shouted through the open conning tower hatch, “Take her down!” He had chosen to sacrifice himself rather than further jeopardize his boat.  
CDR Howard W. Gilmore lost his life in a selfless act of heroism that has become one of the most inspiring legends of the Submarine Force.

CDR Gilmore’s Medal of Honor Citation reads:

“For conspicuous gallantry and valor above  and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the USS GROWLER during her fourth war patrol in the southwest Pacific from 10 January to 7 February 1943. Boldly striking at the enemy in spite of continuous hostile air and anti-submarine patrols, CDR Gilmore sank one Japanese freighter and damaged another by torpedo fire, successfully evading severe depth charges following each attack. In the darkness of night on 7 February, an enemy gunboat closed range and prepared to ram the GROWLER.

CDR Gilmore daringly maneuvered to avoid the crash and rammed the attacker instead, ripping into her port side and bursting wide her plates. In the terrific fire of the sinking gunboat’s heavy machineguns, CDR Gilmore calmly gave the order to clear the bridge, and refusing safety for himself, remained on deck while his men preceded him below. Struck down by a fusillade of bullets and having done his utmost against the enemy, in his final living moments, CDR Gilmore gave his last order to the officer of the deck, “Take her down”. The GROWLER dove; seriously damaged but under control. She was brought safely to port by her well trained crew inspired by the courageous fighting spirit of their dead Captain”