Rear Admiral Frederic R. Harris (April 10, 1875 – July 20, 1949), of New York City, was a naval engineer specializing in docks and port facilities.

He was immediately assigned to projects at the New York Navy Yard as Assistant Engineer, rebuilding dry dock #2 and other facilities.

But local papers focused on the story of a young man doing his best for the country and that got the attention of President Theodore Roosevelt – the orders were rescinded and the company backed down.

Harris was consulted and he recommended a heavy reinforced concrete solution for building on deep shifting sands.

Harris was a member of a consulting team led by Alfred Nobel (the American engineer), and he provided the key ideas and insights to resolve the issue and successfully complete the dock.

Admiral Harris was responsible for a number of large projects during World War I, and was awarded the Navy Cross for his services.

In addition to a new Philadelphia dry dock and various other projects, Harris collaborated with Franklin D. Roosevelt on a plan to place a mine barrier across the North Sea, from the Orkney islands to the Norwegian coast.

This was implemented and successfully reduced the ability of the German Navy to operate submarines in the North Atlantic.

It included all the facilities needed to support the crew, manage operations, communications, and basic ship repairs – hull, structural, plumbing, electrical, etc.

Harris was a founder and trustee of the Philatelic Foundation, and, at the time of his death, he was serving as president and expert.

Awarded the Navy Cross for exceptionally meritorious service in a duty of great responsibility as Chief of the Bureau of Yards and Docks, World War I.