Patrick J. Hannifin, American admiral (d. 2014)

Admiral Patrick J. Hannifin: A Legacy of Submarine Command and Strategic Leadership

Vice Admiral Patrick J. Hannifin (January 26, 1923 – January 9, 2014) was a highly distinguished American naval officer whose extensive career spanned from the tumultuous era of World War II through the strategic complexities of the Cold War. Renowned for his deep expertise in submarine warfare and his impactful leadership in critical strategic roles, Admiral Hannifin's contributions left an indelible mark on the United States Navy and national security.

Early Life, Education, and Foundations of a Naval Career

Born in Oklahoma in 1923 to Steven Patrick and Elizabeth (née Flanagan) Hannifin, Patrick J. Hannifin embarked on a path of rigorous education and military service early in his life. He first attended the esteemed New Mexico Military Institute, a preparatory school known for instilling discipline and leadership qualities. Following this, he earned a coveted appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, from which he proudly graduated in 1944. His graduation year placed him directly into the thick of World War II, preparing him for immediate contributions to the war effort.

Distinguished Service in Submarine Warfare: From World War II to the Cold War

Admiral Hannifin's naval career began with immediate deployment to the Pacific Theater during World War II, where he served on the fleet submarine USS Balao (SS-285). The Balao-class submarines were crucial to the Allied effort, conducting daring patrols and significant combat operations against enemy shipping.

Following the cessation of hostilities, Hannifin continued his dedicated service within the submarine force, a commitment that would define much of his career. His post-war assignments included tours on several submarines, such as the USS Sea Robin (SS-407), USS Grampus (SS-523), and the radar picket submarine USS Rasher (SSR-269). Notably, he also served on the surrendered German U-boat, U-858, an invaluable experience that provided the U.S. Navy with critical insights into advanced German submarine technology and tactics.

His leadership capabilities soon led him to command positions, where he was entrusted with the USS Diodon (SS-349). More significantly, during the height of the Cold War, he commanded two of the United States Navy's earliest and most strategically vital ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs): the USS George Washington (SSBN-598) and the USS Lafayette (SSBN-616). These pioneering submarines were the backbone of the Polaris missile program, establishing the critical component of underwater nuclear deterrence that became a cornerstone of global stability. In 1968, his responsibilities expanded significantly when he was given command of Submarine Squadron 15, based in Guam. This crucial role made him responsible for all Polaris submarines operating within the Pacific Fleet, underscoring his pivotal contribution to the nation's strategic defense posture.

Key Flag Officer Assignments and International Leadership

Upon his promotion to Rear Admiral in September 1969, Patrick Hannifin transitioned into a series of impactful flag officer positions. From September 1969 to October 1971, he served as the Commandant of the Thirteenth Naval District, an important administrative and operational role overseeing naval activities in a key geographic region. His international leadership experience was further solidified through command of Submarine Group Eight in Naples, Italy, a strategic hub for naval operations in the Mediterranean. Concurrently, he commanded Submarine Flotilla Eight and assumed the critical role of Commander Submarines Mediterranean, effectively taking charge of all NATO submarine forces in the region. These commands were vital during the Cold War, ensuring collective defense and maintaining a robust naval presence against potential threats.

Pivotal Roles within the Joint Chiefs of Staff

In 1973, Admiral Hannifin returned to Washington, D.C., to undertake increasingly influential roles within the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). The JCS serves as the principal military advisory body to the President, the Secretary of Defense, the National Security Council, and the Homeland Security Council. His deep operational and strategic understanding quickly made him an invaluable asset in various positions within this elite organization.

His ascent continued in 1976 with a promotion to Vice Admiral, a rank that positioned him to assume the highly critical role of Director of Plans and Policy for the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In this capacity, he was instrumental in shaping the nation's strategic military plans and foreign policy integration. In 1977, he was further appointed as the Director of the Joint Staff, a top leadership position responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Joint Staff and coordinating military strategy across all branches of the U.S. armed forces. He honorably served in this distinguished capacity until his retirement from active duty in 1978.

Decorated Service and Continued Influence

Vice Admiral Hannifin's exemplary service was recognized with numerous prestigious awards, reflecting his dedication, leadership, and valor. His accolades include the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, one of the U.S. Navy's highest non-combat decorations, awarded for exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility. He also received the Legion of Merit, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements, and the Navy Commendation Medal with one Gold Star, indicating a second award, along with a 'V' for VALOR device, signifying his heroic achievement or service in combat.

Even in retirement, Admiral Hannifin remained an active and influential figure. He resided in Solana Beach, California, and transitioned successfully into the private sector, serving as president of HANESCO, Co., a firm engaged in the oil and gas industry. His commitment to national security and naval matters never waned; he frequently served as a consultant on various naval topics, particularly submarines, and appeared on television and news panels to provide expert analysis on current affairs. Demonstrating his broad capabilities, he also possessed a business degree, which he obtained from George Washington University in 1968, likely while still serving.

His enduring legacy is further underscored by significant recognition. He was inducted into the New Mexico Military Institute Hall of Fame on October 25, 1985, an honor reserved for its most distinguished alumni. In 2012, just two years before his passing, he received the esteemed Distinguished Submariner Award from the Naval Submarine League, a testament to his profound and lasting impact on the submarine community.

Personal Life and Enduring Legacy

Patrick J. Hannifin was a devoted family man, having married Mary (née Snyder) on July 12, 1944. Their long and enduring marriage saw them raise three children. Notably, one of their sons, Steven Patrick Hannifin II, followed in his father's footsteps, also serving in the United States Navy, continuing the family's tradition of service. Vice Admiral Hannifin passed away in Solana Beach, California, on January 9, 2014, and was laid to rest with full military honors at the United States Naval Academy Cemetery, a hallowed ground reserved for those who have served the nation with distinction, a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to naval service and national defense.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vice Admiral Patrick J. Hannifin

What was Vice Admiral Patrick J. Hannifin best known for?

Vice Admiral Patrick J. Hannifin was primarily known for his extensive and distinguished career in the United States Navy, particularly his leadership in submarine warfare during World War II and the Cold War, including commanding strategic ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) like the USS George Washington and USS Lafayette. He also held pivotal strategic roles within the Joint Chiefs of Staff, serving as Director of Plans and Policy and later as Director of the Joint Staff.

What significant commands did he hold during the Cold War?

During the Cold War, Vice Admiral Hannifin commanded the nuclear ballistic missile submarines USS George Washington (SSBN-598) and USS Lafayette (SSBN-616), which were crucial to the Polaris nuclear deterrence program. He also commanded Submarine Squadron 15 in Guam, overseeing all Pacific Fleet Polaris submarines, and later commanded NATO submarine forces as Commander Submarines Mediterranean in Italy.

What were his roles within the Joint Chiefs of Staff?

At the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Vice Admiral Hannifin served in multiple influential capacities. Most notably, he was the Director of Plans and Policy from 1976, where he helped shape national military strategy, and subsequently, from 1977 until his retirement in 1978, he served as the Director of the Joint Staff, overseeing the daily operations and coordination of the Joint Staff.

What notable awards did Vice Admiral Hannifin receive?

Vice Admiral Hannifin was a highly decorated officer, receiving prestigious awards such as the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Navy Commendation Medal with one Gold Star and a 'V' for VALOR device, recognizing his exceptional service, leadership, and bravery in combat.

Did Vice Admiral Hannifin continue to be involved in naval matters after retirement?

Yes, even after retiring from active duty, Vice Admiral Hannifin remained deeply involved in naval matters. He served as a consultant on submarines and other naval topics, frequently appearing on television and news panels to offer his expert analysis on current affairs. He also transitioned to a successful business career as president of HANESCO, Co., in the oil and gas industry.