Captain Alvin L. Gallin (USN) Ret.
October 14, 1920 - July 13, 2010
TITUSVILLE Captain Alvin L. Gallin (USN) Ret., 89, died on Tuesday, July 13, 2010 at Parrish Medical Center in Titusville, FL.
He was born and raised in New York City, he was appointed to the Naval Academy in 1938, graduating in December 1941, six months early because of the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Following graduation, he served in Gregory (APD-3), sunk in surface action at Guadalcanal; commissioned Stockton (DD-646) on the Atlantic coast; returned to the Pacific in Bryant (DD-665) which was severely damaged by a kamikaze at Okinawa and from which his wounds required seven months of hospitalization.
Upon returning to sea, he served as XO in C.S. Sperry (DD-697), as XO, commissioned Hamner (DD-718) and then commanded Carpelotti (APD-136). During his second year of command, the ship was awarded the Battle Efficiency Pennant, the first of her class to be so honored. Subsequently, he served on the staff, Commander Amphibious Force Pacific, Commander MSTSO Manila, staff Commander Naval Forces Philippines, Philippine Sea (CVS-47), CO Haleakala (AE-25) and Inspector – General Commander Military Sea Transport Service. His last tour was as Maritime Director Panama Canal from which he retired from Naval Service to work for the Panama Canal Company prior to the treaty with the Republic of Panama.
In addition to the Legion of Merit and two Bronze Stars with Combat V's, his decorations included the Navy Unit Commendation, Purple Heart and area campaign ribbons with seven battle stars.
In civilian life, Alvin worked for the Convair Division of General Dynamics in San Diego, CA and for the Planning Research Corporation at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, FL. He also earned a Master's degree in Personnel Management from San Diego State College.
He was active in volunteer work as the first male President of the Canal Zone Girl Scout Council, President of the Fort Clayton Tiding Club and as an Ombudsman of the Florida Governor's Long Term Council. He was also a Mason, a Shriner and a Jester.
He was predeceased by his wife of 49 years, Grace “Nancy” Gallin.
Alvin is survived by his daughter, Julia Simonello and her husband Michael; and two grandchildren.
Funeral Information
A memorial service is scheduled for 1 p.m., July 17, 2010 at the Indian River City United Methodist Church, 1355 Cheney Highway, Titusville, FL 32780.
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