Claud Edwin Cleeton (December 11, 1907 – April 16, 1997) was an American physicist notable for his groundbreaking work, with Neal H. Williams, on the microwave spectroscopy of ammonia.
In 1935 he completed his PhD at the University of Michigan, under Neal H. Williams, with a thesis entitled: Electromagnetic-Waves of 1.1 cm Wavelength and the Absorption Spectrum of Ammonia.
After obtaining his PhD, Cleeton went to work for the Navy and during World War II he was with the Naval Research Laboratory, where he improved radar systems.
For his wartime efforts, Cleeton received the President's Certificate of Merit from Harry Truman in 1946 and the Meritorious Civilian Service Award the following year.
Cleeton was survived by his wife of 66 years, Mary Ellen; two daughters, Sue Guildi and Sarah Kakaley.