David Comer, an American naval officer, born in Harrisburg, Pa., about 1792, died in Philadelphia, March 20,1856. He entered the navy as midshipman in January, 1809, and as acting lieutenant took part in the action between the Hornet and Peacock, Feb. 24, 1813. The Peacock surrendered in a sinking condition in 15 minutes after the engagement commenced, and Lieut. Conner was charged with the duty of removing the prisoners, most of whom he succeeded in saving, though not without losing three of his own men. In 1813 he became a lieutenant, and remained in the Hornet, under the command of Capt. James Biddle. In the action with the Penguin in 1815 he was dangerously wounded. For his gallant conduct in that action he was presented with a medal by congress, and the legislature of his native state votecLhim a sword. On March 3, 1825, he was promoted to the rank of commander, and on March 3, 1835, to that of captain. At the opening of the war with Mexico he was in command of the squadron on the West India station. In May, 1846, having received intelligence that Arista had determined to attack Gen. Taylor, he sailed from Vera Cruz for Brazos Santiago, where he arrived on the 8th, too late for the fighting. He now established an efficient blockade of the Mexican ports on the gulf.

In August and October two fruitless attempts were made to enter the port of Alva-rado. On Nov. 14 the port of Tampico was captured. On March 9, 1847, he directed the landing of the army under Gen. Scott at Vera Cruz, but was soon after compelled by ill health to return home. His last service was the command of the Philadelphia navy yard.