PORTSMOUTH, Va. — On Friday the U.S. Coast Guard saluted Maury High School graduate and World War II hero Robert Prause Jr.
On the night of February 3, 1943, in the frigid North Atlantic off Newfoundland, Lieutenant Prause was credited with saving 133 lives following a German U-boat attack, thanks to the tethered rescue swimmer/rubber exposure suit system he invented.
The glory didn't last long.
Four months later, Prause was killed when his own ship was struck by a U-boat.
He posthumously received the Navy and Marine Corps Medal and the Purple Heart Medal for his heroic efforts.
Now 76 years after his death, the Coast Guard named its Sector Hampton Roads Command Center after Prause.
"It makes sense that this man who gave such a great sacrifice to his country be remembered and honored here, where so many great men and women are now currently serving," said Captain Keven Carroll, Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads commander.
For Prause's descendants, this honor for their long-lost ancestor is overwhelming.
"Over the years, I've wondered how could he be acknowledged for his contributions and sacrifices?" said nephew Robert Prause Garnett. "And today kind of brings it about... not kind of, does bring it about."
Great nephew Bradley White was moved.
"I'm very humbled and honored about it," he said. "About the whole thing. And to have this great building behind me dedicated to his memory is wonderful."
Lieutenant Prause also attended the Norfolk Division of the College of William and Mary and graduated from the Coast Guard Academy.
He was given full military honors and was buried at sea.