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Captain Alfred S. McLaren, who led the U.S. nuclear submarine Queenfish during a critical Arctic mission in August 1970, died on September 19 at age 93 due to complications from surgery. The Queenfish's mission involved mapping the Arctic sea floor near the Soviet Union, where the crew faced dangerous underwater channels and had no rescue plan.

McLaren, who had a distinguished 26-year Navy career, participated in 20 submarine missions, earning the Distinguished Service Medal for the 1970 expedition. He later became an expert in climate change and polar geography, receiving a doctorate in 1986.

McLaren also contributed to maritime archaeology, notably diving to the Titanic and Bismarck wrecks. He was a member of the Explorers Club, serving as president from 1996 to 2000. He is survived by his wife, four children, and several grandchildren.