Hugh M. Platt
Early Life
Hugh Malcolm Platt was born on August 21, 1889, in Ithaca, New York, the son of Chester Childs Platt and Minnie Fidelia Brown. He was raised in upstate New York, spending his early years in Ithaca and later in Batavia, where he attended local schools.
He went on to attend Cornell University, graduating in 1911, an education that positioned him for a professional career in business and publishing. His early life reflects a background of education and stability, with family ties to the newspaper and publishing industry through his father.
World War I Service
During World War I, Platt served as an officer in the United States Navy aboard the USS Texas (BB-35), a battleship that played an important role in the American naval fleet during the war.
The USS Texas was part of the Atlantic Fleet and was tasked with protecting shipping lanes, supporting Allied naval operations, and maintaining American naval readiness during the conflict. While the ship did not engage in major fleet battles during World War I, it was actively involved in escort duties and fleet operations that were essential to securing the Atlantic against submarine threats.
As a naval officer, Platt would have been responsible for leadership and operational duties aboard one of the Navy’s principal capital ships, contributing to the broader effort to safeguard American and Allied maritime interests.
His service in the Navy during this period placed him among the officers supporting the expansion and modernization of American naval power during World War I.
Life After Service
Following World War I, Platt returned to civilian life and entered the publishing business, eventually becoming president of the Batavia Times Publishing Company, a law printing firm in Batavia, New York. His career reflected both his education and family background in the publishing industry.
He married Marie Walsh on June 7, 1935, in Manhattan, New York, and they had children together. He remained active in business and community life in Batavia for many years.
During World War II, Platt returned to active duty in the United States Navy, serving in a specialized role in naval ordnance inspection. His experience and prior service contributed to the wartime effort in a technical and supervisory capacity. He ultimately retired with the rank of Commander.
Hugh M. Platt died on January 7, 1964, at Genesee Memorial Hospital in Batavia, New York, after a period of declining health.
At the time of his death, he was survived by his wife, Marie Platt; and his sons, Charles M. Platt and Chester C. Platt.