Graveley, Samuel Lee, Jr (1922– )

US navy officer. In 1961 he became the first African-American ever to command a US Navy ship, and in 1971 the first to attain the rank of rear admiral. His speciality was naval communications, and after service as commander of the 3rd Fleet (1976–78), he became director of the Defense Communications Agency (1978–80). When he retired as a highly decorated vice admiral in 1980, he was the first African-American to attain three stars in the navy. He became a consultant to defence contractors and served on various corporate boards of directors.

Graveley was born in Richmond, Virginia. He had begun college when he left to enlist in the US Naval Reserve (1942). He was the first African-American to be commissioned as an ensign in World War II. After service in the war, he was released from active duty and completed college at Virginia Union University, graduating with a BA in 1948. He was recalled to active duty in August 1949 and saw sea and shore duty during the Korean War. He transferred to the regular navy in 1955.