Alan Boyd Banister (February 4, 1905 – November 1, 1963) was a decorated submarine commander during World War II who reached the rank of Rear Admiral in the United States Navy.

Alerted by Ultra intercepts to the presence of the Japanese submarine I-29, returning from Germany carrying a cargo of technical materials, the wolf pack set an ambush on 26 July .

On the night of 23 October he sank the converted seaplane tender Kimikawa Maru, while Drum and Icefish accounted for three freighters in the next three days.

[12] Banister was awarded a second Navy Cross for his leadership of the wolf pack, credited with sinking eight Japanese ships totaling more than 56,000 tons, and the rescue of the aviator.

[3] Banister transferred to command Submarine Division 31 aboard Charr in October 1945, and became executive officer of the Naval Ammunition Depot at Fort Mifflin in April 1946.

After studying at the National War College between August 1949 and June 1950, Banister was posted to the Weapons Systems Evaluation Group of the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

His final post was as chief of staff and aide to the Commander of Naval Base Portsmouth before retiring on 1 July 1958 with a graveyard promotion to rear admiral.