Walter Albert Bell

Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy

Walter Albert Bell was born on 28 November 1934, the son of Asa Otis and Camille (Birchfield) Bell. Upon graduation from Ouachita Parish High School in Monroe, LA, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy at the age of seventeen. He eventually advanced to the rank of Chief Yeoman. Based upon his performance, he was selected for commissioning as an LDO-Ensign, and retired as a Lieutenant Commander (LCDR). He qualified in submarines and served thirteen years in the Submarine Service of the Navy.

LCDR Bell also served in Korea and, as an advisor to the South Vietnamese Navy in Vietnam. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat "Valor" Device; the Navy Achievement Medal (two awards); the Navy Unit Commendation; the Good Conduct Medal (three awards); the Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Medal with Palm); the Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Civil Actions Medal, First Class with Palm); the National Defense Medal (two awards), the Korean Service Medal (three awards); the Vietnam Service Medal; and the Republic of Vietnam Staff Service Honor Medal First Class. He retired from the Navy on 1 December 1974.

Following his outstanding military career, he was a successful operations manager with Misco Paper Converters, Inc.; Adams Industries; and ConPac, Inc. His hobbies included antique cars, riding motorcycles, reading, and cooking.

Death and Burial

Lieutenant Commander Walter Albert Bell, U.S. Navy (Ret.), age 71, died suddenly on 28 November 2005. He is buried at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Green Gables, Rapides Parish, LA.

Survivors include his wife of over twenty-six years, Lillie M. Bell of West Monroe, LA; daughter, Debera R. Bell-Beam of Linden, TN; daughter, Dianna M. Fahrenkrug of Mesa, AZ; son, Dennis O. Bell of Linden, TN, daughter Kelli M. Sligh of Collierville, TN; son Kendall N. Farrar of West Monroe, LA; daughter, Karla Deon Mayo of West Monroe, LA; and eighteen grandchildren. Other survivors include his sister, Jeannine Fuqua of Pineville, LA, and numerous nieces and nephews.

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