John Martin Howard (20 August 1917–11 June 1942) was born in Chester, Pennsylvania, and enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve on 22 June 1935. After training duty 1940-1941 at the Naval Reserve Midshipman's School, Howard was appointed Ensign 28 February 1941. After serving at the Washington Navy Yard and at the Bureau of Ordnance, Howard was assigned temporary duty at the American Embassy, London. He was killed as a result of an accidental mine explosion. USS John M. Howard (IX-75) was named in his honor.