To All Who Shall See These Presents Greeting:

This is to Certify that
The President of the United States of America
Takes Pleasure in Presenting

THE NAVY CROSS
to

VAESSEN, JOHN BARTH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Barth Vaessen, Fireman Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for exceptional courage, presence of mind, and devotion to duty and disregard for his personal safety while serving on board the Target Ship U.S.S. UTAH (AG-16), during the Japanese attack on the United States Pacific Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, on 7 December 1941. Although realizing that his ship, the U.S.S. UTAH, was capsizing, Fireman Second Class Vaessen remained at his post at the forward distribution board after word had been passed to abandon ship, and kept the lights burning as long as possible. Trapped, he later was rescued through a hole cut in the bottom of the capsized target ship. The conduct of Fireman Second Class Vaessen throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 10, 1916 at San Francisco, California
Home Town: Hollywood, California

VALENCIA, EUGENE ANTHONY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Eugene Anthony Valencia, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron NINE (VF-9), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), on 17 April 1945, and deployed over Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: at San Francisco, California
Home Town: San Francisco, California

VAN ANTWERP, LOYD WILBERT
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Loyd Wilbert Van Antwerp, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTEEN (VT-18), embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 24 October 1944. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 14, 1914 at Grand Rapids, Michigan
Home Town: Coronado, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

VAN ANTWERP, LOYD WILBERT
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Loyd Wilbert Van Antwerp, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTEEN (VT-18), embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 14, 1914 at Grand Rapids, Michigan
Home Town: Coronado, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

VAN ARSDALL, CLYDE J., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Clyde J. Van Arsdall, Jr., Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. ANTHONY (DD-515), in action against the enemy from 25 through 27 May 1945, at Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

VAN BERGEN, NICHOLAS BAUER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Nicholas Bauer Van Bergen, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Gunnery Officer aboard the Light Cruiser U.S.S. MARBLEHEAD (CL-12), when that ship was bombed by Japanese planes during the Battle of the Java Sea on 10 February 1942. In addition to carrying out his own duties in the early part of the action, he subsequently assumed the duties of Executive Officer when the latter was wounded, supervising control of damaged areas, assisting in rescue and care of injured, and coordinating the work of all departments. His heroism under fire and efficient service not only contributed toward saving his ship, which limped into an East Coast port and safety, but also helped save the lives of many in the MARBLEHEAD'S company. Commander Van Bergen's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 305 (August 1942)
Born: May 27, 1900 at San Francisco, California
Home Town: San Francisco, California

VAN BRUNT, THOMAS BYRD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas Byrd Van Brunt, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Composite Squadron SIXTY-FIVE (VC-65), embarked from the U.S.S. ST. LO (CVE-63), during action against major Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Flying without assistance from other aircraft, Lieutenant Van Brunt pressed home two daring attacks against an enemy Task Group, dropping three depth bombs alongside a heavy cruiser and scoring a direct hit on a hostile battleship. Lieutenant Van Brunt's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 23, 1917 at Tallahassee, Florida
Home Town: Tallahassee, Florida

VAN BUREN, CHARLES ROGER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles Roger Van Buren, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over the Inland Sea of Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Mukwonago, Wisconsin

*VAN BUREN, JOHN JAMES (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John James Van Buren (0-081539), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Defying extreme danger from concentrated anti-aircraft barrage and powerful fighter opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Van Buren, with bold determination and courageous zeal, participated in dive-bombing assaults against Japanese naval units. Flying at a distance from his own forces which rendered return unlikely because of probable fuel exhaustion, he pressed home his attacks with extreme disregard for his own personal safety. His gallant intrepidity and loyal devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: July 22, 1915 at Mukwonago, Wisconsin
Home Town: New York, New York

VAN STONE, CLIFFORD GOULD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Clifford Gould Van Stone, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SEVENTEEN (VB-17), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), on 7 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 20, 1918 at Cambria, Wyoming
Home Town: Taft, California

*VANDIVIER, NORMAN FRANCIS (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Norman Francis Vandivier (0-083280), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Defying extreme danger from concentrated anti- aircraft barrage and powerful fighter opposition, Ensign Vandivier, with bold determination and courageous zeal, participated in dive-bombing assaults against Japanese naval units. Flying at a distance from his own forces which rendered return unlikely because of probable fuel exhaustion, he pressed home his attacks with extreme disregard for his own personal safety. His gallant intrepidity and loyal devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: March 10, 1916 at Edwards, Mississippi
Home Town: Franklin, Indiana

*VARIAN, BERTRAM STETSON, JR. (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Bertram Stetson Varian, Jr. (0-099908), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Defying extreme danger from concentrated anti-aircraft barrage and powerful fighter opposition, Ensign Varian, with bold determination and courageous zeal, participated in dive-bombing assaults against Japanese naval units. Flying at a distance from his own forces which rendered return unlikely because of probable fuel exhaustion, he pressed home his attacks with extreme disregard for his own personal safety. His gallant intrepidity and loyal devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: November 26, 1920 at Weiser, Idaho
Home Town: Boise, Idaho

VAUGHN, CHARLES HENRY, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles Henry Vaughn, Jr., Chief Machinist's Mate, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with YP-346, in action on 9 September 1942, at Tulagi in the Solomon Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: January 30, 1915 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: San Pedro, California

VEEDER, WILLIAM SCHEUTZE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Scheutze Veeder, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. LONG (DD-209), in sinking an enemy submarine on 28 January 1942. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: January 19, 1903 at Washington, D.C.
Home Town: Nokesville, Virginia

VEJTASA, STANLEY WINFIELD
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Stanley Winfield Vejtasa, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron FIVE (VS-5), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces near Salamaua and Lae, New Guinea, on 10 March 1942. In the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Vejtasa dived and skillfully attacked one of three Japanese aircraft tenders or transports and obtained a direct hit on one of the hostile vessels. By his superb airmanship and outstanding courage he contributed to the destruction of the three enemy ships and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 27, 1914 at Paris, Montana
Home Town: Circle, Montana
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

VEJTASA, STANLEY WINFIELD
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Stanley Winfield Vejtasa, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron FIVE (VS-5), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Tulagi Harbor on 4 May 1942, and in the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. On 4 May, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Vejtasa participated in dive bombing attacks on the enemy in Tulagi Harbor which resulted in the sinking or damaging of at least eight enemy vessels. On 7 May, he took part in a dive bombing attack on an enemy carrier in the Coral Sea which resulted in the sinking of that vessel. On 8 May, while on anti-Torpedo Plane patrol, he engaged enemy bombing and Torpedo Planes heavily supported by fighters which attacked our forces. The attacks on 4 and 7 May were pressed home in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire with no regard for personal safety. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Vejtasa's conscientious devotion to duty and gallant self-command against formidable odds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 27, 1914 at Paris, Montana
Home Town: Circle, Montana
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

VEJTASA, STANLEY WINFIELD
(Third Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Stanley Winfield Vejtasa, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and leader of a Combat Air patrol of four fighters of Fighting Squadron TEN (VF-10), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the engagement with enemy Japanese naval and air forces near the Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942. As great numbers of enemy dive bombers and Torpedo Planes launched a vicious attack upon his carrier, Lieutenant Vejtasa unhesitatingly challenged and shot down two Japanese dive bombers and then gallantly led his patrol in an attack on a group of enemy Torpedo Planes with such daring aggressiveness that the formation was completely broken and three of the hostile bombers jettisoned their torpedoes as they fled. Lieutenant Vejtasa then personally shot down five of the remaining Japanese planes, making a total of seven enemy aircraft destroyed in a single flight. His superb airmanship and indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 316 (July 1943)
Born: July 27, 1914 at Paris, Montana
Home Town: Circle, Montana
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

VERDEN, WILLIAM F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William F. Verden, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession and for his participation 1 February 1942, in the attack on the Marshall Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

VERDIN, JAMES BERNARD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James Bernard Verdin, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWENTY (VF-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944, in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 23, 1918 at Miles City, Iowa
Home Town: Iowa City, Iowa

VERRALL, ROBERT LYLE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Lyle Verrall, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron NINE (VB-9), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action against the Japanese on 7 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Verrall's outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

*VESOLE, KAY K.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Kay K. Vesole, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Armed Guard aboard the S.S. JOHN BASCOM when that vessel was bombed and sunk by enemy aircraft in the harbor of Bari, Italy, on the night of 2 December 1943. Weakened by loss of blood from an extensive wound over his heart and with his right arm helpless, Ensign Vesole valiantly remained in action, calmly proceeding from gun to gun, directing his crew and giving aid and encouragement to the injured. With the JOHN BASCOM fiercely ablaze and sinking, he conducted a party of his men below decks and supervised the evacuation of wounded comrades to the only undamaged lifeboat, persistently manning an oar with his uninjured arm after being forced to occupy a seat in the boat, and upon reaching the seawall, immediately assisted in disembarking the men. Heroically disregarding his own desperate plight as wind and tide whipped the blaze along the jetty, he constantly risked his life to pull the wounded out of flaming oil-covered waters and, although nearly overcome by smoke and fumes, assisted in the removal of casualties to a bomb shelter before the terrific explosion of a nearby ammunition ship inflicted injuries which later proved fatal. The conduct of Ensign Vesole throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 329 (August 1944)
Born: September 11, 1913 at Pzedboz, Poland
Home Town: Rock Island, Illinois

VIEWEG, WALTER VICTOR RUDOLPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Walter Victor Rudolph Vieweg, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. GAMBIER BAY (CVE-73), during action against enemy Japanese forces near Samar in the Philippine Islands, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. When a formidable column of Japanese ships attacked our escort carriers, Captain Vieweg held indomitably to a bold, aggressive course. He waged a fierce battle with planes and gunfire until, with vital machinery deep within the ship destroyed by the continuous blasting of heavy weapons, all hope of escape from disaster was shattered. Determined to fight the GAMBIER BAY to the end, he inspired all hands to heroic effort and, repeatedly exposing himself to the enemy's deadly bombardment, skillfully employed his few available weapons in valiant defense of his stricken vessel. The conduct of Captain Vieweg throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 342 (September 1945)
Born: September 19, 1902 at Elmira, New York
Home Town: Berkeley, California

VISSER, RICHARD G.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard G. Visser, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. DALY (DD-519), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. This successful attack contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and dangerous threat to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Commander Visser's high professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 19, 1906 at Garfield, New Jersey
Home Town: West Upton, Massachusetts

VISTO, ERNEST RICHARD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ernest Richard Visto, Fireman Third Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy on 15 October 1944, while serving in the Pacific War Area. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: May 8, 1920 at Gackle, North Dakota
Home Town: Berkeley, California

VOGE, RICHARD GEORGE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard George Voge, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SAILFISH (SS-192), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 19 February 1942 to 19 March 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Lombok Strait in the Java Sea. Following an unsuccessful attack on the Japanese warship on 2 March, the SAILFISH was forced to dive deep to escape the depth charge attack of the destroyer and patrol aircraft. That night, she contacted a carrier-type vessel, escorted by four destroyers. Sailfish torpedoed and sank the aircraft ferry, Kamogawa Maru, near the approach to Lombok Strait, leaving the ship aflame and dead in the water. On another occasion the SAILFISH scored torpedo hits on a Japanese cruiser. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Voge brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 302 (May 1942)
Born: May 4, 1904 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

VOLTZ, ROBERT FRANCIS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Francis Voltz, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-ONE (VT-81), embarked from the U.S.S. NATOMA BAY (CVE-62, in action on 25 October 1944, during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 20, 1920 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

VORSE, ALBERT OGDEN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Albert Ogden Vorse, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY (VF-80), embarked from the U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), in action while deployed over Formosa. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 9, 1914 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Camp Hill, Pennsylvania

VOSE, JAMES EVERETT, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James Everett Vose, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron NINE (VS-9), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the engagement with enemy Japanese naval and air forces near the Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 18, 1912 at Manville, Rhode Island
Home Town: Coronado, California

VRACIU, ALEXANDER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Alexander Vraciu, Commander [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SIXTEEN (VF-16), attached to the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), during operations in the vicinity of the Marianas Islands. On 12 June 1944 while participating in a daring strike against enemy shipping in a Saipan Harbor, Commander Vraciu dove through intense anti-aircraft fire to sink a large enemy merchant ship by a direct hit on its stern. On 14 June 1944 in the course of a strike against enemy positions in the islands of North of Saipan, Commander Vraciu sighted an enemy search plane. Despite an altitude disadvantage, he approached the plane so skillfully keeping in its "blind spot" that he was able to overhaul it and shoot it down. On 19 June 1944 with his Task Force under attack by a numerically superior force of enemy aircraft, Commander Vraciu struck furiously at the hostile bombers and, in the face of vigorous fighter opposition, succeeded in shooting down six thus contributing to the break-up of a concentrated enemy attack. On 20 June 1944 while flying escort for bomber and Torpedo Planes on a long-range strike against the Japanese Fleet, Commander Vraciu fearlessly closed with a group of hostile fighters, blasting one from the sky and severely damaging another to enable our forces to attack and disable a Japanese carrier. By his devotion to duty, Commander Vraciu reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 2, 1918 at East Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: East Chicago, Illinois

WABEL, LEWIS N.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lewis N. Wabel, Gunner's Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Gun Captain of a 20-mm. gun on an LCI Gunboat during the assault on Leyte, Philippine Islands on 20 October 1944. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: March 22, 1926 at Peoria, Illinois
Home Town: Henry, Illinois

WADDELL, JAMES
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James Waddell, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WADKINS, WILLIAM BERNICE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Bernice Wadkins, Seaman First Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as Coxswain onboard a Mechanized Landing Craft LCM from an attack cargo ship during the amphibious landing on Baanga Island, New Georgia, on 12 August 1943. After skillfully bringing his craft to the beach under fierce machine-gun cross-fire, which set ablaze an ammunition box in the front of the cockpit, Seaman First Class Wadkins turned over his duties to a shipmate and, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, threw the burning explosives overboard. Despite the deadly fire of the enemy, he assisted in holding the boat on the beach, helping the troops who were landing and those who were being evacuated, and administering first aid to the wounded while the boat was backing off the shore. Although he himself was injured, Seaman First Class Wadkins resumed his station in the cockpit and continued to back his craft for almost a mile in order to bring his machine gun to bear on the enemy. The conduct of Seaman First Class Wadkins throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 337 (April 1945)
Born: March 5, 1918 at Anson, Texas
Home Town: Anson, Texas

WAGNER, ARTHUR
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Arthur Wagner, Chief Boatswain's Mate, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty as member of a demolition party attached to the Fleet Tug U.S.S. CHEROKEE (AT-66), during the assault on and occupation of French Morocco from 8 to 11 November 1942. Assigned the extremely dangerous task of cutting through an enemy obstruction in order that the U.S.S. DALLAS could navigate up the Sebou River in order to land raiders near a strategic airport, Chief Boatswain's Mate Wagner and his shipmates, on the night of 9 November, proceeded with grim determination toward their objective. Despite the treacherous surf, he and his comrades skillfully and courageously accomplished their hazardous mission of cutting the cables at the mouth of the river, as guns from the French fort opened fire. Countering the enemy's attack until out of range, Chief Boatswain's Mate Wagner and the other members of his party, in spite of the enormous breakers which battered their boat, brought her back to safety. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 5, 1910 at Gloucester, Massachusetts
Home Town: Gloucester, Massachusetts

WAGNER, ERWIN J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Erwin J. Wagner, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 28 July 1945, over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WAGNER, WILLIAM H., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William H. Wagner, Jr., Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane deployed over Samar in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944, in the Philippine Islands. Ensign Wagner's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 16, 1922 at Plainfield, New Jersey
Home Town: Plainfield, New Jersey

WAGONER, LEONARD H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Leonard H. Wagoner, Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary courage and heroic conduct on 30 December 1941, as Second Pilot of a Navy Seaplane in Patrol Squadron FIFTY-ONE (VP-51), in rescuing the crew of nine men and officers of an Army B-17 that was forced down at sea four days previously. In that Leonard H. Wagoner, Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class, USN, on 30 December 1941, while acting as Second Pilot of a patrol plane at a very great distance from land, sighted two life rafts and, after the sea had been reported as too rough to attempt a rescue, did assist his patrol plane commander, Ensign F. M. Fisler, in a very rough sea, rescuing the crew, nine officers and men, of an Army B-17 forced down at sea on 26 December 1941, and did thereby exhibit rare vigilance, skill and extraordinary heroism above and beyond the normal demands of duty, the United States then being in a state of war.
Bureau of Navigation Bulletin 288 (February 1, 1942)
Born: December 6, 1909 at Bakersville, North Carolina
Home Town: Norfolk, Virginia

WAHLSTROM, PAUL JOHAN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Paul Johan Wahlstrom, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane embarked from the U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), in action on 17 February 1945, while deployed over Tokyo, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 18, 1921 at Boston, Massachusetts
Home Town: Mattapan, Massachusetts

WAIDNER, GEORGE I. A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George I. A. Waidner, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of LSI(G)-FOUR HUNDRED SEVENTY-ONE (LSI(G)-471), in action on 17 June 1944, at Guam in the Marianas Islands. Lieutenant Waidner's conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

WAINWRIGHT, PHILIP N.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Philip N. Wainwright, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-FOUR (VT-84), embarked from the U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), during an attack against the Japanese Battleship Yamato off Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. Displaying great skill and courage, Lieutenant Wainwright pressed home his torpedo attack and despite extremely intense antiaircraft fire from all caliber weapons on the battleship and the surrounding screen. His torpedo was one of thirteen dropped in a concerted attack by the squadron, which cored at least nine hits on the battleship almost simultaneously. Without flinching he carried his torpedo in to close range through adverse weather conditions and intense enemy fire which included the main batteries, contributing materially to the complete destruction of the capital ship a short time later. His courage, skill, determination and unswerving devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

*WAKEHAM, J. DONALD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to J. Donald Wakeham, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TEN (VB-10), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against the enemy on 14 November 1942, while deployed in the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 24, 1919 at Stockton, California
Home Town: Anaheim, California

WALDEN, JAMES W.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James W. Walden, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Plane, in action on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WALDEN, JAMES W.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to James W. Walden, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*WALDRON, JOHN CHARLES (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Charles Waldron (0-058825), Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Grimly aware of the hazardous consequences of flying without fighter protection, and with insufficient fuel to return to his carrier, Lieutenant Commander Waldron resolutely, and with no thought of his own life, led his squadron in an effective torpedo attack against violent assaults of enemy Japanese aircraft fire. His courageous action, carried out with a gallant spirit of self-sacrifice and a conscientious devotion to the fulfillment of his mission, was a determining factor in the defeat of the enemy forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 317 (August 1943)
Born: August 21, 1900 at Fort Pierce, South Dakota
Home Town: Fort Pierce, South Dakota

WALDROP, LEONARD ERNEST
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Leonard Ernest Waldrop, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Composite Squadron SIXTY-FIVE (VC-65), embarked from the U.S.S. ST. LO (CVE-63), during action against major Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Flying in the face of intense antiaircraft fire which seriously damaged his plane, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Waldrop pressed home six attacks on an enemy cruiser without the support of other aircraft. His courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Waldrop and the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 23, 1915 at Saratoga, Texas
Home Town: Liberty, Texas

WALKER, DANIEL V.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Daniel V. Walker, Seaman Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as Bow Gunner on Motor Torpedo Boat ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-THREE (PT-133), in action on 15 October 1943, during an engagement in which his vessel and Motor Torpedo Boat 191 attacked and destroyed four troop-laden enemy landing craft. All guns on his vessel having ceased fire due to stoppages or lack of ammunition, Seaman Second Class Walker left a place of comparative safety and proceeded to a forecastle gun which was jammed, but which had ammunition available. On the way he was knocked down by a bullet striking his chest. Nevertheless, he continued on his hands and knees, removed the ammunition, crawled to his own gun and re-opened fire on the enemy. He continued firing until struck in the arm by another bullet. As a result of his resolute action, the enemy fire slackened, and Motor Torpedo Boat 191 was able to close in and destroy the enemy craft. The exceptional heroism, intrepidity, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Seaman Second Class Walker were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 14, 1925 at Ottawa, Illinois
Home Town: Marseilles, Illinois

WALKER, FRANCIS D., JR.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Francis D. Walker, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CREVALLE (SS-291), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 4 April 1944 to 28 May 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Walker brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 11, 1914 at North Vassalbord, Maine
Home Town: Wyoming, Ohio
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WALKER, FRANCIS D., JR.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Francis D. Walker, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CREVALLE (SS-291), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 21 June 1944 to 19 August 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Walker brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 11, 1914 at North Vassalbord, Maine
Home Town: Wyoming, Ohio
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*WALKER, FRANK CECIL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Frank Cecil Walker, Gunner's Mate First Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as Gunner on Motor Torpedo Boat THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-THREE (PT-363). On the night of 7 January 1944, off the north coast of New Guinea, Gunner's Mate First Class Walker's boat engaged and, against bitter resistance, sank five enemy barges. Although mortally wounded in the opening moments of the engagement he remained at his station and continued to fire his machine gun with great effectiveness into the enemy barges throughout the greater part of the engagement until he collapsed to the deck. After the action, Gunner's Mate First Class Walker, although suffering great pain, asked, "Did we get them? How did my guns fire?" His last words before losing consciousness were to his immediate subordinate, "Get those guns cleaned up, Son." So long as consciousness remained his only thoughts were of his duty in the service of his country, for which he gave his life. The exceptional heroism, intrepidity, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Gunner's Mate First Class Walker were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 329 (August 1944)
Born: August 12, 1907 at Fostoria, Texas
Home Town: Memphis, Tennessee

WALKER, FRANK R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frank R. Walker, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer Squadron FOUR, during operations off Vella Lavella in the Solomon Islands on the night of 6 - 7 October 1943. Although fully aware that enemy planes had discovered the position and course of his three destroyers on a vital mission to intercept and prevent hostile forces from evacuating Japanese troops, Captain Walker sought out and engaged the enemy's nine ships and closed immediately to 7,000 yards and delivered a devastating torpedo attack followed by accurate gunfire. When others of his own vessels were severely damaged in the furious battle and compelled to withdraw he courageously continued directing the efforts of the destroyer on which he was embarked until heavy damage forced his ship to retire. His brilliant leadership contributed to the success of his squadron in sinking one or more Japanese ships and the damaging of three others, and the frustrating of an important enemy mission. The conduct of Captain Walker throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 332 (November 1944)
Born: July 11, 1899 at Florence, Alabama
Home Town: Long Beach, California

WALKER, JOHN DENLEY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Denley Walker, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SEVENTEEN (VB-17), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action against the enemy on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 14, 1919 at Petersburg, Virginia
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

WALKER, JOHN H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John H. Walker, Pay Clerk (SC), U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Supply Corps, SIXTEENTH Naval District, Cavite, Philippine Islands, following the Japanese bombing attack on the Cavite Naval Yard beginning on 10 December 1941. Pay Clerk Walker displayed the highest degree of personal courage, leadership and presence of mind while under fire by voluntarily organizing and leading a party which rescued a number of buried and wounded men from burning debris. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 302 (May 1942)
Born: February 3, 1911 at Kaylor, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Long Beach, California

WALKER, WILLIAM M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William M. Walker, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in action while serving on board the submarine U.S.S. BARB (SS-220), during a sabotage mission on 23 July 1945, during the TWELFTH War Patrol of that vessel off the Coast of Japan. Lieutenant Walker and a small group of volunteers from the U.S.S. BARB went ashore in the Japanese Home Islands to destroy a train using scuttling charges from the submarine. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

WALL, LESTER SENECA, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lester Seneca Wall, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WALLACE, JOHN GEORGE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John George Wallace, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island in the Solomons on the night of on November 12 and 13 1942. Although he had sustained serious burns when a hostile plane crashed in flames upon his station, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Wallace, despite acute pain and waning strength, fought tirelessly to combat the ensuing fire and administered first aid to other wounded personnel until he lost consciousness. His gallant spirit of self- sacrifice, maintained above and beyond the call of duty, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Services.
Born: February 18, 1919 at Tampa, Florida
Home Town: Vineland, New Jersey

WALLACE, THOMAS GARROW
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas Garrow Wallace, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as First Lieutenant and Damage Control Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), during operations in Philippine waters when his ship was attacked by a heavy force of Japanese aircraft on 25 November 1944. Though stunned and burned by the explosion of an enemy bomb on the flight deck of the INTREPID, Lieutenant Commander Wallace continued his efforts to direct fire-fighting crews amid smoke, flame and exploding ammunition. His efforts were instrumental in saving the ship from more serious damage and to him went the major credit for getting the fires under control. The conduct of Lieutenant Commander Wallace throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 18, 1902 at Portland, Oregon
Home Town: Taft, California

WALLEY, JAMES E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James E. Walley, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-SEVEN (VT-87), embarked from the U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), in action against the enemy on 28 July 1945, while deployed over the Inland Sea of Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WALRAVEN, ALBERT TAVEL, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Albert Tavel Walraven, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FOURTEEN (VB-14), embarked from the U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), in action against the enemy fleet in the vicinity of the East Philippine Sea on 20 June 1944. Participating in a daring strike upon the enemy Fleet, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Walraven braved intense and accurate antiaircraft fire and the presence of enemy fighter aircraft to press home his low-level attacks and to score direct hits on an enemy vessel. When his fuel supply became exhausted during the hazardous return trip to base in complete darkness, he skillfully executed a water landing without injury to himself or to his air crewman and successfully abandoned the sinking plane with sufficient equipment to enable the party to survive until rescued. By his brilliant airmanship, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Walraven contributed materially to the success of our operations in this historic engagement, and his great personal valor in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 7, 1922 at Dallas, Texas
Home Town: Dallas, Texas

*WALSH, RICHARD JOHN, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Richard John Walsh, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-FOUR (VT-84), embarked from the U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), during an attack against the Japanese Battleship Yamato off Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. Displaying great skill and courage, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Walsh pressed home his torpedo attack and despite extremely intense antiaircraft fire from all caliber weapons on the battleship and the surrounding screen, and was shot down before he could release his torpedo. His courage, skill, determination and unswerving devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Phoenix, Arizona

WALTER, ENOS S.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Enos S. Walter, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WALTERS, RICHARD BECK
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard Beck Walters, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Division Leader of a Flight of Torpedo Squadron ONE (VT-1), embarked from the U.S.S. Bennington (CV-20), in action against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet at Kure Naval Base on 28 July 1945. Undaunted by intense and accurate antiaircraft fire from numerous warships and strategically located shore batteries, Lieutenant Walters courageously led his division in an aggressive glide-bombing attack at low altitude against a heavy cruiser to score multiple hits and inflict extensive damage on the enemy vessel. After releasing his bombs, he pressed home strafing runs against a large enemy freighter and, through his valiant efforts, contributed materially to the success of an epic strike in which all capital ships of the Japanese Fleet at Kure were sunk or damaged. By his airmanship, bold initiative and gallant fighting spirit, Lieutenant Walters upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WALTON, CHARLES R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles R. Walton, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Plane, in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over Kyushu, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WARD, LYTTLETON T.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lyttleton T. Ward, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY-THREE (VF-83), embarked of the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against the enemy on 27 March 1945, while deployed over Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WARD, NORVELL G.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Norvell G. Ward, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GUARDFISH (SS-217), on the EIGHTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 14 June 1943 to 31 July 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Luzon Straits in the Philippine Islands. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Ward brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 30, 1912 at Indian Head, Maryland
Home Town: Indian Head, Maryland

WARD, PAUL JUNIOR
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Paul Junior Ward, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron FIFTEEN (VT-15), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), during offensive air operations against enemy shipping on 5 November 1944, in Manila Bay on the Island of Luzon, of the Philippine Group. Despite intense enemy opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Ward engaged in daring and persistent attacks on enemy Japanese shipping, scoring a direct hit on a large enemy battleship Ensign Ward's outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: October 29, 1921 at Henry County, Missouri
Home Town: Evanston, Illinois

WARD, ROBERT E. M.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert E. M. Ward, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SAILFISH (SS-192), on the TENTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 17 November 1943 to 5 January 1944, in enemy Japanese home waters off the main island of Honshu. Despite intensive enemy air and surface anti-submarine patrols, Commander Ward skillfully and aggressively penetrated enemy convoys, attacking and sinking a Japanese carrier and three important freighters, and damaging another freighter. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Ward brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 344 (November 1945)
Born: February 2, 1914 at San Acacia, Colorado
Home Town: Antioch, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WARD, ROBERT E. M.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Robert E. M. Ward, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SAILFISH (SS-192), on the ELEVENTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 9 July 1944 to 6 September 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Luzon-Formosa area. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Ward brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 2, 1914 at San Acacia, Colorado
Home Town: Antioch, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WARDER, FREDERICK BURDETT
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frederick Burdett Warder, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SEAWOLF (SS-197), during the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 25 February 1942 to 1 April 1942, in enemy controlled waters near the coast of Java. In extremely shallow and narrow waters where very strong currents exist off the coast of Java, Lieutenant Commander Warder attacked and sank a Japanese destroyer and one large transport which were part of a heavy screened force. Off Christmas Islands, Netherlands East Indies, he made repeated attacks on enemy light cruisers which were heavily screened by destroyers, sinking one cruiser and heavily damaging two others, one of which probably sank. All attacks were followed up to short ranges in the face of active enemy opposition, and after each attack his submarine was the target of heavy, prolonged, depth-charge counter-attacks by the enemy. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Warder brought his ship through unscathed. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 302 (May 1942)
Born: March 19, 1904 at Grafton, West Virginia
Home Town: Grafton, West Virginia
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WARDER, FREDERICK BURDETT
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Frederick Burdett Warder, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SEAWOLF (SS-197), during the SEVENTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 7 October 1942 to 1 December 1942, in enemy controlled waters. Taking advantage of every favorable attack with alert skill and courageous efficiency, Lieutenant Commander Warder succeeded in sinking a total of 16,8109 tons of enemy shipping and in severely damaging an additional 5,000 tons. By expert maneuvering he brought his boat safely through without material damage and his crew home without injury or loss of life. Lieutenant Commander Warders conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men, and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 315 (June 1943)
Born: March 19, 1904 at Grafton, West Virginia
Home Town: Grafton, West Virginia
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*WARE, CHARLES ROLLINS (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Charles Rollins Ware (0-073633), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron SIX (VS-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Participating in a devastating assault against a Japanese invasion fleet, Lieutenant Ware, with fortitude and resolute devotion to duty, pressed home his attacks in the face of a formidable barrage of anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition. His gallant perseverance and disregard for his own personal safety were important contributing factors to the success achieved by our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: March 11, 1911 at Knoxville, Tennessee
Home Town: Knoxville, Tennessee

WARE, ROBERT MACKY
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Macky Ware, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane in action on 22 August 1942, while deployed over the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 18, 1915 at Hagerman, New Mexico
Home Town: Hagerman, New Mexico
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WARE, ROBERT MACKY
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Robert Macky Ware, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Bomber and Commanding Officer of Bombing Squadron SEVENTEEN (VB-17), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action against the enemy on 17 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 18, 1915 at Hagerman, New Mexico
Home Town: Hagerman, New Mexico
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WARNER, RICHARD D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard D. Warner, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWENTY (VB-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during action against units of the Japanese Fleet in waters west of the Central Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 24 October 1944. Flying as wingman on a search and attack mission when an enemy task force was sighted and his division was assigned the Japanese battleship MUSASHI as a target, Lieutenant Warner defied the withering barrages of antiaircraft fire to dive low over the hostile warship and release his bombs at perilously low altitude to score direct hits which started fires and contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage on the Japanese vessel. His superb airmanship, inspiring courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Warner and the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 18, 1918 at New York, New York
Home Town: Germantown, Pennsylvania

WASHBURN, GEORGE A.T.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George A.T. Washburn, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. Lunga Point (CVE-94), in action against the enemy on 2 April 1945, at Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

WASHENSKI, JOSEPH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph Washenski, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession, in action against the enemy during World War II. (No further information is available on this recipient or this award at the present time.)

WASSELL, CORYDON McALMONT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Corydon McAlmont Wassell, Lieutenant Commander (MC), U.S. Navy (Reserve), for distinguished service in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage, and disregard of personal danger while serving as a Medical Officer to wounded men of the U.S.S. MARBLEHEAD (CL-12), at a Field Hospital in Java, during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Java Sea on 1 March 1942. Lieutenant Commander Wassell disregarded personal safety while caring for and evacuating wounded under his charge in Java, Netherlands East Indies, under extremely hazardous and trying conditions. By his courage, determination, and untiring devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander Wassell saved many lives. His professional ability, courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service. .
Born: July 4, 1884 at Little Rock, Arkansas
Home Town: Little Rock, Arkansas

*WATERMAN, ANDREW KENNETH (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Andrew Kenneth Waterman (02340582), Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Waist Gunner of a Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron ONE HUNDRED ONE (VP-101), Patrol Wing TEN (PatWing-10), in action against enemy Japanese naval forces located near Jolo, in the Philippine Islands, on the morning of 27 December 1941. In the ensuing action, Japanese Zero fighters and anti-aircraft bursts filled the air around the harbor, but the U.S. Navy PBY-4 bombers made their approach, dropped their bombs and inflicted heavy damage upon several enemy war and merchant ships. Although he was wounded shortly after the approach was made, Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class Waterman shot down one enemy airplane before being mortally wounded and, remaining at his station, continued to fire upon the Japanese Zero fighters until enemy bullets killed him at his post. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 304 (July 1942)
Born: December 20, 1913 at Lewis County, Kentucky
Home Town: San Diego, California

WATKINS, EDWARD LARKIN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward Larkin Watkins, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WATTS, CHARLES EDWARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles Edward Watts, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and Division Leader in Fighting Squadron SEVENTEEN (VF-17), attached to the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action against enemy Japanese forces in Kure Bay, Japan, 19 March 1945. Participating in a daring fighter strike on major units of the Japanese Fleet, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Watts dived through intense enemy antiaircraft fire to press home a strafing attack on a Japanese aircraft carrier. Unable to release his bomb, he recovered altitude and led his division in a bombing attack on a cruiser. Subsequently, he aided in strafing a large tanker which was left burning, and assisted in an attack on an airfield which resulted in the destruction of six parked aircraft and the infliction of severe damage on airfield installations and hangars. He took part in strafing and exploding a locomotive and then joined in two strafing runs on a seaplane base, destroying two four-engined patrol planes and two single-engined seaplanes and inflicting serious damage on seven others. His courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Watts and the United States Naval Service.

WDOWIAK, STANLEY EDWARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Stanley Edward Wdowiak, Radioman Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Member of a party of nine men who boarded and captured the German Submarine U-505,on 4 June 1944, off Cape Blanco in French West Africa. When this party boarded the submarine it was still underway and was running on the surface in a circle, the crew having just been driven overboard by gunfire from the ships and aircraft of Task Group 22.3. There was every reason to believe that there were still enemy personnel below setting demolition charges and scuttling but Radioman Second Class Wdowiak and two others plunged down the conning tower hatch prepared to fight it out with any enemy personnel they found. Then, although water was pouring into the U-boat and there was the strong possibility that it would blow up or sink at any moment, he remained below and assisted in salvaging the submarine and keeping it afloat so that eventually the submarine was towed to Bermuda. Radioman Second Class Wdowiak's conduct reflects great credit on the Naval Service and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Navy.
Born: January 20, 1925 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

WEAR, ROBERT C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert C. Wear, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-FOUR (VT-84), embarked from the U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), during an attack against the Japanese Battleship Yamato off Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. Displaying great skill and courage, Ensign Wear pressed home his torpedo attack and despite extremely intense antiaircraft fire from all caliber weapons on the battleship and the surrounding screen. His torpedo was one of thirteen dropped in a concerted attack by the squadron, which cored at least nine hits on the battleship almost simultaneously. Without flinching he carried his torpedo in to close range through adverse weather conditions and intense enemy fire which included the main batteries, contributing materially to the complete destruction of the capital ship a short time later. His courage, skill, determination and unswerving devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WEARMAN, LEONARD M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Leonard M. Wearman, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WEARY, NEAL SCOTT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Neal Scott Weary, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron THREE (VS-3), embarked from the U.S.S. SARATOGA (CV-3), in action against the enemy on 5 October 1942, over Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 5, 1919 at Cainsville, Missouri
Home Town: Cainsville, Missouri

WEAVER, Curtis A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Curtis A. Weaver, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WEBB, WILBUR BUTCHER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Wilbur Butcher Webb, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWO (VF-2), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action against the enemy on 19 June 1944, while deployed over the Marianas Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 14, 1920 at Ardmore, Oklahoma
Home Town: Ardmore, Oklahoma

WEBER, BRUCE S.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Bruce S. Weber, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

*WEBER, FREDERICK THOMAS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Frederick Thomas Weber (0-083087), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Defying extreme danger from concentrated anti- aircraft barrage and powerful fighter opposition, Ensign Weber, with bold determination and courageous zeal, participated in dive-bombing assaults against Japanese naval units. Flying at a distance from his own forces which rendered return unlikely because of probable fuel exhaustion, he pressed home his attacks with extreme disregard for his own personal safety, scoring a direct hit on an enemy aircraft carrier. Later, while pressing home a desperate and vigorous counterattack against enemy Japanese fighter planes, he was shot down. His gallant intrepidity and loyal devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: February 4, 1916 at Des Moines, Iowa
Home Town: Galesburg, Illinois

WEBER, JOHN FREDERICK
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Frederick Weber, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over Kyushu, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 342 (September 1945)

WEBSTER, CLINTON R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Clinton R. Webster, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-FOUR (VT-84), embarked from the U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), during an attack against the Japanese Battleship Yamato off Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. Displaying great skill and courage, Ensign Webster pressed home his torpedo attack and despite extremely intense antiaircraft fire from all caliber weapons on the battleship and the surrounding screen. His torpedo was one of thirteen dropped in a concerted attack by the squadron, which cored at least nine hits on the battleship almost simultaneously. Without flinching he carried his torpedo in to close range through adverse weather conditions and intense enemy fire which included the main batteries, contributing materially to the complete destruction of the capital ship a short time later. His courage, skill, determination and unswerving devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

*WEICKHARDT, CHARLES EUGENE, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Charles Eugene Weickhardt, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWENTY-THREE (VF-23), embarked from the U.S.S. LANGLEY (CV-27), in action against the enemy on 29 March 1945, while deployed over Kyushu, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WEIL, EDWIN JOHN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edwin John Weil, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scout Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron THIRTEEN (VB-13), embarked from the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Sibuyan Sea during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. By his superb flying ability, indomitable fighting spirit and cool courage, maintained at great personal risk, Lieutenant Weil contributed immeasurably to the extensive and costly damage inflicted on the Japanese fleet in this vital war area. His conduct throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 12, 1919 at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York

WEISS, DONALD F.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Donald F. Weiss, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TINOSA (SS-283), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 10 January 1944 to 4 March 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Weiss brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 4, 1906 at Lawrence, Massachusetts
Home Town: Methuen, Massachusetts
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WEISS, DONALD F.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Donald F. Weiss, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TINOSA (SS-238), on the SIXTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 29 March 1944 to 15 May 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Luzon Strait in the Philippine Islands. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Weiss brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 4, 1906 at Lawrence, Massachusetts
Home Town: Methuen, Massachusetts
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WELCH, GORDON ALBERT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Gordon Albert Welch, Storekeeper Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Gun Captain of a 20- mm. gun on an LCI Gunboat during the assault on Leyte, Philippine Islands on 20 October 1944. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: March 3, 1914 at Phenix City, Alabama
Home Town: Savannah, Georgia

*WELCH, VIVIAN WARREN (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Vivian Warren Welch, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TEN (VB-10), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the engagement with enemy Japanese naval and air forces near the Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942. On that date Lieutenant Welch maintained station over the enemy after sighting a large force of Japanese warships while conducting a search mission of his squadron, thereby furnishing information which enabled our air force to launch an effective attack. On a later date he directed his division of planes in a raid on a Japanese cruiser force, fighting through a bursting wall of antiaircraft fire in order to deliver a vigorous dive-bombing attack. Leading a second assault on the same day, he defied opposition from hostile surface craft and Zero fighters to press home an attack against a large enemy transport, maneuvering in such a manner as to make possible the infliction of heavy damage upon the vessel. Lieutenant Welch's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 315 (June 1943)
Born: July 27, 1913 at Rifle, Colorado
Home Town: Grand Junction, Colorado

WELLEN, WILLIAM HENRY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Henry Wellen, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Bomber, in action on 7 April 1945, during a daring strike against the enemy fleet in the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WELLER, OSCAR ARTHUR
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Oscar Arthur Weller, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), in action against the enemy from 29 August 1944 to 30 October 1944, while on war patrol in the Pacific War Area. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: December 2, 1896 at Beeville, Texas
Home Town: Coronado, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WELLER, OSCAR ARTHUR
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Oscar Arthur Weller, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. WASP (CV-7), during operations in support of landings of our forces on Japanese-held Okinawa in the Ruykyu Islands on 19 March 1945. When his ship was struck by a hostile bomb, Captain Weller skillfully maintained control and carried out all scheduled strikes. By his forceful and inspiring leadership, outstanding tactical ability and great personal valor under adverse conditions, he contributed materially to the success of our sustained offensive. The conduct of Captain Weller throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 343 (October 1945)
Born: December 2, 1896 at Beeville, Texas
Home Town: Coronado, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WELLINGS, JOSEPH HAROLD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph Harold Wellings, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. STRONG (DD-467), during operations in Kula Gulf, Solomon Islands, on 4 and 5 July 1943. Commanding his warship during landing operations on New Georgia island, the Strong was screening a task force during the bombardment of Japanese shore batteries and installations on Kolombangara and New Georgia Islands, British Solomon Islands. Commander Wellings' inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.

WELSH, JOHN DANIEL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Daniel Welsh, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron EIGHTY FOUR (VB-84), embarked from the U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), in action against the enemy on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Kure Harbor, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 12, 1923 at New York, New York

WENDT, EDWARD REYNOLD, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward Reynold Wendt, Jr., Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against the enemy on 18 July 1945, while deployed over Yokosuka, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WERTS, CHARLES LUTHER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles Luther Werts, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CORELL, from 1 April to 17 June 1945, off Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

WEST, DOUGLAS HALLING
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Douglas Halling West, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron FIFTY-ONE (VT-51), embarked from the U.S.S. SAN JACINTO (CVL-30), in action against the enemy on 25 October 1944, during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 3, 1920 at Syracuse, New York
Home Town: Montclair, New Jersey

WEST, FRANK RUSSELL
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frank Russell West, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. Fearlessly pressing home a determined attack in the face of extremely intense and accurate antiaircraft fire from the formidable enemy disposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, West succeeded in scoring a direct hit upon a Japanese battleship of the ISE class. By his superb airmanship, exceptional courage and steadfast devotion to duty through a perilous assignment, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, West contributed materially to the sinking of this valuable enemy fighting unit and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: June 12, 1917 at Marion Township, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Fombell, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WEST, FRANK RUSSELL
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Frank Russell West, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against the enemy on 13 November 1944, while deployed over Manila in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 12, 1917 at Marion Township, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Fombell, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WEST, JAMES CHARLES
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James Charles West, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. By his superb airmanship, daring combat tactics and courage maintained in the face of tremendous opposition, Lieutenant West contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage and destruction on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive battle, and his gallant devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 8, 1918 at Morgantown, West Virginia
Home Town: Morgantown, West Virginia

WEST, JOHN NORMAN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Norman West, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron SIX (VS-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Participating in a devastating assault against a Japanese invasion fleet, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, West, with fortitude and resolute devotion to duty, pressed home his attacks in the face of a formidable barrage of anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition. His gallant perseverance and utter disregard for his own personal safety were important contributing factors to the success achieved by our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: February 14, 1914 at Forest Grove, Oregon
Home Town: Corvallis, Oregon

*WEST, PHILIP LEONARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Philip Leonard West, Fireman First Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Destroyer U.S.S. JOHNSTON (DD-557), in action against the enemy when his ship was attacked at sea in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. When the JOHNSTON was severely damaged by enemy gunfire, Fireman First Class West reentered a steam-filled compartment to rescue a trapped shipmate, although he had been seriously burned. While carrying out his voluntary mission he lost his own life. The conduct of Fireman First Class West throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 340 (July 1945)
Born: December 22, 1913 at Chanute, Kansas
Home Town: San Bernardino, California

WESTHOLM, ROLLIN E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Rollin E. Westholm, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. BUSH (DD-529), in action against the enemy on 6 April 1945, at Leyte in the Philippine Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

WESTIN, HOWARD S.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Howard S. Westin, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession, while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island in the Solomons on the night of on November 12 and 13 1942. When an enemy plane crashed into the aft control station, with great courage and complete lack of regard for his personal safety, he led a fire hose out to the top of turret three in the midst of heavy gun fire, thereby aiding in the prompt extinguishment of the fire. Subsequently he suffered a severe wound. His fearless, courageous and heroic conduct was highly instrumental in minimizing the damage to his ship and contributed greatly to the victory achieved in this notable engagement. His gallant spirit of self-sacrifice, maintained above and beyond the call of duty, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Services.
Born: February 11, 1913 at Proctor, Vermont
Home Town: Proctor, Vermont

WEYLER, GEORGE L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George L. Weyler, Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Battle Line Commander, Allied Support Force, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. This successful attack contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and dangerous threat to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Rear Admiral Weyler's high professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 14, 1886 at Emporia, Kansas
Home Town: Emporia, Kansas

WEYMOUTH, RALPH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ralph Weymouth, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber and Commanding Officer of Bombing Squadron SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action against the enemy fleet in the vicinity of the East Philippine Sea on 20 June 1944. By his brilliant airmanship, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander Weymouth contributed materially to the success of our operations in this historic engagement, and his great personal valor in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 26, 1917 at Seattle, Washington
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

WHEELER, EVERETT LOGUE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Everett Logue Wheeler, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 23 July 1945, while deployed in the Pacific War Area. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WHEELER, KENNETH E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Kenneth E. Wheeler, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron FORTY-SEVEN (VT-47), embarked from the U.S.S. Bataan (CVL-29), in action against the enemy on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WHELPLEY, GORDON BRITTAIN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Gordon Brittain Whelpley, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. By his superb airmanship, daring combat tactics and courage maintained in the face of tremendous opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Whelpley contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage and destruction on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive battle, and his gallant devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 8, 1920 at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York

WHITAKER, REUBEN THORNTON
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Reuben Thornton Whitaker, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. FLASHER (SS-249), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 6 January 1944 to 29 February 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Whitaker brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 23, 1911 at West Point, Georgia
Home Town: Hughes, Arkansas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WHITAKER, REUBEN THORNTON
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Reuben Thornton Whitaker, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. FLASHER (SS-249), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 19 June 1944 to 7 August 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Whitaker brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 23, 1911 at West Point, Georgia
Home Town: Hughes, Arkansas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WHITAKER, REUBEN THORNTON
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Reuben Thornton Whitaker, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. FLASHER (SS-249), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 30 August 1944 to 20 October 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Whitaker brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 23, 1911 at West Point, Georgia
Home Town: Hughes, Arkansas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WHITE, ARTHUR J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Arthur J. White, Commander (MC), U.S. Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage, and disregard of personal danger while serving as Senior Medical Officer on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), during the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. By his courage, determination, and untiring devotion to duty, Commander White saved many lives. His professional ability, courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 15, 1889 at West Leipsic, Ohio
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

WHITE, DAVID CHARLES
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to David Charles White, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PLUNGER (SS-179), during the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 13 December 1941 to 3 February 1942, in his own and in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Despite intensive enemy air and surface anti- submarine patrols, Lieutenant Commander White successfully attacked and sank an enemy vessel of 17,000 tons. During the period of this patrol a total of twenty-four depth charges were dropped around and near U.S.S. PLUNGER. In spite of this, Lieutenant Commander White's assignment was completed without damage to his submarine or injury to the personnel under his command. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 302 (May 1942)
Born: November 13, 1903 at Detroit, Michigan
Home Town: Detroit, Michigan
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WHITE, DAVID CHARLES
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to David Charles White, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PLUNGER (SS-179), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 5 June 1942 to 15 July 1942, in offensive action against Japanese forces in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Availing himself of every attack opportunity while conducting hazardous submarine patrol operations in enemy-controlled waters, Lieutenant Commander White followed a persistently aggressive course and succeeded in sinking a total of 18,000 tons of enemy shipping, and, in addition, inflicted severe damage on a total of 10,000 tons without injury or damage to material or personnel of his command. In the superb handling of his vessel and in his gallant and intrepid leadership, Lieutenant Commander White sustained and enhanced the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 315 (June 1943)
Born: November 13, 1903 at Detroit, Michigan
Home Town: Detroit, Michigan
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WHITE, DONALD M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Donald M. White, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron NINE (VT-9), in action against the enemy on 11 November 1943, over Rabaul. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

*WHITE, HAROLD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Harold White, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron EIGHT (VS-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 6 June 1942. With utter disregard for his own personal safety and in the face of intense antiaircraft fire, Ensign White participated in determined and effective bombing and strafing attacks on fleeing enemy Japanese forces, obtaining a successful hit on one of the enemy ships. His airmanship, courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 312 (March 1943)
Born: November 29, 1915 at Florence, South Carolina
Home Town: Florence, South Carolina

WHITE, HARRY CLIFFORD, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Harry Clifford White, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane in in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WHITE, PAUL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Paul White, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WHITE, ROBERT EUGENE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Eugene White, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting-Bombing Squadron SIX (VFB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against the Japanese on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WHITFORD, PAUL HOBART
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Paul Hobart Whitford, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in the attack on major units of the Japanese fleet in Kure Harbor, Japan, consisting of battleships, carriers and heavy cruisers, on 24 July 1945. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WHITFORD, PAUL HOBART
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Paul Hobart Whitford, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Bomber in Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOK (CV-19), on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WHITNEY, JOHN PERRY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Perry Whitney, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. KITKUN BAY (CVE-71), in a surface engagement with a large task force of the Japanese Fleet near the Island of Samar in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. By his own courage and gallant determination, he gave encouragement to his officers and men during this crucial ordeal. His heroic actions have brought great distinction upon himself and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: September 25, 1900 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Cedartown, Georgia

WHITNEY, RINTOUL T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Rintoul T. Whitney, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct and efficiency in time of stress while serving as Commander, Cavite Navy Yard, during the bombardment of that station in the Philippine Islands by Japanese air forces beginning 10 December 1941, and during subsequent occupation by the Japanese of Manila Bay Area. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 315 (June 1943)
Born: July 11, 1889 at Escanaba, Michigan
Home Town: Arlington, Virginia

WHITTIER, MARK TWAIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Mark Twain Whittier, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWO (VB-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces over enemy-controlled waters near Lae and Salamaua, New Guinea on 10 March 1942. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Whittier pressed home, in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, a vigorous and determined dive bombing attack on enemy ships, sinking three of them. His outstanding courage, daring airmanship and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 16, 1913 at Rice Lake, Wisconsin
Home Town: Topeka, Kansas

WICKLANDER, EDGAR B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edgar B. Wicklander, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of a U.S. Navy Combat Ship, in action against the enemy on 18 May 1945, at Okinawa Shima. Lieutenant Wicklander pulled his ship alongside a friendly destroyer and rescued the survivors and fought the raging fires. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

WICKLANDER, RAYMOND GEORGE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Raymond George Wicklander, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. His courage, daring tactics and fearless devotion to duty were essential factors in the success of our forces and reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Wicklander and the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 16, 1921 at Washburn, North Dakota
Home Town: Washburn, North Dakota

WIDHELM, WILLIAM JOHN
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William John Widhelm, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane and Executive Officer of Scouting Squadron EIGHT (VS-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 13, 1908 at Humphrey, Nebraska
Home Town: Humphrey, Nebraska
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WIDHELM, WILLIAM JOHN
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to William John Widhelm, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane and Commanding Officer of Scouting Squadron EIGHT (VS-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), on 26 June 1942, while deployed over Santa Cruz Island in the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 13, 1908 at Humphrey, Nebraska
Home Town: Humphrey, Nebraska
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WIEBER, CARLOS W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Carlos W. Wieber, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 24 October 1944. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

WIEGAND, JACK DUDLEY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jack Dudley Wiegand, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane in in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WIESE, NORMAN A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Norman A. Wiese, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane in in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over Kyushu, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WILBOURNE, WILLIAM W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William W. Wilbourne, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Gunnery Officer aboard the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an in action against Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 - 13 November, 1942. During an engagement with major elements of the Japanese fleet, Lieutenant Commander Wilbourne controlled the fire of his offensive weapons in such a rigorous and determined manner that a Japanese battleship was silenced and set afire, a Japanese cruiser was sunk, and a destroyer was sunk. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: July 17, 1908 at Marion, Alabama
Home Town: Marion, Alabama

*WILCOX, RUSSELL STOVER
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Russell Stover Wilcox (0-098756), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWENTY (VB-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during action against units of the Japanese Fleet in waters west of the Central Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 24 October 1944. Flying as wingman on a search and attack mission when an enemy task force was sighted and his division was assigned the Japanese battleship MUSASHI as a target, Lieutenant Wilcox defied the withering barrages of antiaircraft fire to dive low over the hostile warship and release his bombs at perilously low altitude to score direct hits which started fires and contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage on the Japanese vessel. His superb airmanship, inspiring courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Wilcox and the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 14, 1918 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Skokie, Illinois
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Purple Heart

*WILCOX, RUSSELL STOVER
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Russell Stover Wilcox (0-098756), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWENTY (VB-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), on 15 December 1944, on a Clark Field mission. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 14, 1918 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Skokie, Illinois
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Purple Heart

*WILEMAN, WILLIAM W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William W. Wileman, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWO (VF-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces on 7 and 8 May 1942, in the Air Battle of the Coral Sea. With accurate understanding of his objective and bold perseverance in attaining it, Ensign Wileman destroyed one Japanese fighter plane and courageously attacked several others. His high devotion to duty in the performance of a dangerous and difficult task contributed measurably to the defense of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 308 (November 1942)
Born: May 4, 1917 at Barsdale, California
Home Town: Fillmore, California

WILEY, HERBERT VICTOR
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Herbert Victor Wiley, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Battleship U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA (BB-48), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. This successful attack contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and dangerous threat to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Captain Wiley's high professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WILFONG, JOHN LESTER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Lester Wilfong, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. LANG (DD-399), during a surface engagement with enemy Japanese forces at Vella Gulf, Solomon Islands, on the night of 6 - 7 August 1943. Lieutenant Commander Wilfong maneuvered his ship and struck boldly with well-timed and perfectly coordinated torpedo attacks, which resulted in the sinking of one Japanese cruiser and three destroyers. He brought his ship through the engagement without loss or damage. Lieutenant Commander Wilfong's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 326 (May 1944)
Born: September 5, 1902 at Yakima, Washington
Home Town: Palo Alto, California

WILHOIT, WILLIAM L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William L. Wilhoit, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Relief Officer of Naval Scout Boat LCT FIVE HUNDRED FORTY (LCT-540), during landing and support operations on the Normandy Coast of France beginning 6 June 1944. Severely wounded during the first moments of the assault when nine shattering blasts from German 88-mm. cannon crippled his ship, killed his Officer in Charge, killed or wounded six Army personnel and injured seven crewmen, Ensign Wilhoit unhesitatingly assumed command and despite his extreme youth and lack of combat experience maneuvered the now unwieldy craft toward the beach through German-emplaced obstacles and mines. Intrepid in the face of continued punishing gunfire and unwavering under the grueling day and night duty of the ensuing four days, Ensign Wilhoit faithfully carried on his mission and, by his own great valor, inspired his loyal crew to supreme effort in the repeated landing of equipment, supplies and troops vital to assault operations. By his dauntless leadership, resolute fighting spirit and conspicuous gallantry in the fulfillment of an unfamiliar and perilous task, Ensign Wilhoit upheld and enhanced the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 334 (January 1945)
Born: April 28, 1923 at Atlanta, Georgia
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia

*WILKE, JACK W. (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Jack W. Wilke (0-104093), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Radioman/Bombardier of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from Naval Air Station Midway during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 and 5 June 1942. In the first attack against an enemy carrier of the Japanese invasion fleet, Ensign Wilke pressed home his attack in the face of withering fire from enemy Japanese fighters and anti-aircraft forces. Because of events attendant upon the Battle of Midway, there can be no doubt that he gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country. His courage and utter disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 310 (January 1943)
Born: June 13, 1919 at Covina, California
Home Town: Covina, California

WILKINS, CHARLES W.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles W. Wilkins, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of this profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. NARWHAL (SS-167), for his participation 1 February 1942, in the attack on the Marshall Islands, and for aggressive and successful action against the enemy while engaged in hazardous submarine patrol in enemy waters during the period 2 February 1942 to 28 March 1942, on the FIRST War Patrol of his vessel. Despite intensive enemy surface patrols, he sank 12,000 tons of enemy merchant shipping without damage or injury to material or personnel of his command. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Wilkins brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 30, 1902 at Thorofare, New Jersey
Home Town: Thorofare, New Jersey
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WILKINS, CHARLES W.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Charles W. Wilkins, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. NARWHAL (SS-167), during the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 8 July 1942 to 26 August 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the Kurile Islands. While engaged in hazardous submarine patrol, Commander Wilkins, availing himself of every attack opportunity, pressed home all contacts and succeeded in sinking a total of 14,500 tons of enemy shipping. Commander Wilkins' inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 311 (February 1943)
Born: August 30, 1902 at Thorofare, New Jersey
Home Town: Thorofare, New Jersey
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WILKINSON, EDWIN R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edwin R. Wilkinson, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. O'BANNON (DD-450), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 - 13 November, 1942. On this occasion the force to which Commander Wilkinson was attached engaged at close quarters and defeated a superior enemy force, inflicting heavy damage upon them and preventing the accomplishment of their intended mission. This daring and intrepid attack, brilliantly executed, led to a great victory for his country's forces. By his indomitable fighting spirit, expert seamanship, and gallant devotion to duty, Commander Wilkinson contributed largely to the success of the battle and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 312 (March 1943)
Born: September 23, 1902 at Norfolk, Virginia
Home Town: North Miami, Florida

WILLETT, FRANCIS M., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Francis M. Willett, Jr., Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-SEVEN (VT-87), embarked from the U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over the Inland Sea of Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 19, 1923 at Providence, Rhode Island
Home Town: Wharton, New Jersey

*WILLETT, KENNETH M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Kenneth M. Willett, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous courage as Commanding Officer of the United States Navy Armed Guard aboard the S.S. STEPHEN HOPKINS during action with unidentified enemy forces while en route from Capetown to Paramaribo, on 27 September 1942. In an attack launched by the enemy, and with no friendly ship in sight, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Willett promptly manned his station at the 4-inch gun as the first shell struck, and opened fire on the most heavily armed of the two enemy raiders. Although seriously wounded in the stomach almost immediately, he kept up a sustained and rapid fire at close range, hitting his target along the water line with most of the 35 shells fired. Because of his great personal valor and gallant spirit of self-sacrifice, he was able to maintain a determined and heroic defense of his ship until forced by a magazine explosion to cease his fire. Still refusing to give up, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Willett, obviously weakened and suffering, went down on deck and was last seen helping to cast loose the life rafts in a desperate effort to save the lives of others. The Stephen Hopkins was shelled repeatedly from stem to stern, but before she plunged stern first, wrecked and blazing into the sea, her guns had inflicted serious damage on both enemy raiders and caused the probable destruction of one of them. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: April 9, 1919 at Overland, Missouri
Home Town: Sacramento, California

WILLIAMS, BRUCE WADE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Bruce Wade Williams, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and Division Leader in Fighting Squadron NINETEEN (VF-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. While participating in a strike on units of the enemy fleet, Lieutenant Williams led his division through intense anti-aircraft fire on a strafing and glide bombing attack. He personally dropped a five hundred pound bomb on a battleship which was left damaged by the vigorous attack of our aircraft. He then made repeated strafing runs on destroyers and severely damaged one. This was accomplished in spite of anti-aircraft fire at low altitudes. Lieutenant Williams' inspiring courage, daring tactics, and fearless devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 19, 1919 at Grants Pass, Oregon
Home Town: Salem, Oregon
Awards: Navy Cross (WWII), 3@ Distinguished Flying Crosses, Air Medal

*WILLIAMS, CLAIR T.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Clair T. Williams, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Bomber in Bombing Squadron SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked from the U.S.S. RANDOLPH (CV-15), in action on 14 July 1945, while deployed over Hokkaido, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WILLIAMS, EVAN KENNETH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Evan Kenneth Williams, Aviation Pilot First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), in action on 26 October 1942, and deployed over Santa Cruz Island in the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 1, 1914 at Reading, Kansas
Home Town: Lebo, Kansas

WILLIAMS, GEORGE S.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George S. Williams, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-SEVEN (VT-87), embarked from the U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), in action against the Japanese on 28 July 1945, while deployed over the Inland Sea of Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WILLIAMS, JOE WYLIE, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joe Wylie Williams, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane deployed over Samar in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944, in the Philippine Islands. Lieutenant Williams' outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 14, 1920 at Caddo Mills, Texas
Home Town: Rusk, Texas

WILLIAMS, JOHN GEORGE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John George Williams, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTEEN (VT-18), embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WILLIAMS, JOSEPH WARFORD, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph Warford Williams, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SPEARFISH (SS-190), on the TENTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 17 January 1944 to 29 February 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Luzon Straits in the Philippine Islands. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Williams brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 28, 1911 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Martinsville, Indiana

WILLIAMS, OWEN FOCH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Owen Foch Williams, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane in action on 26 October 1944, during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WILLIAMS, ROBERT PERSHING
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Pershing Williams, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWO (VB-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942. In the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition, Ensign Williams dived his plane at an enemy Japanese aircraft carrier and released his bomb with calm accuracy. By grim determination and expert appraisal of his objective, he contributed materially to the high percentage of hits inflicted by his particular squadron and assisted in ultimate destruction of the enemy carrier. His individual action was an important factor in the collective success of those United States Naval forces which engaged in the enemy in the Battle of the Coral Sea. Ensign Williams' outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 307 (October 1942)
Born: August 30, 1918 at Pierre, South Dakota
Home Town: Snoqualmie, Washington
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WILLIAMS, ROBERT PERSHING
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Robert Pershing Williams, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Composite Squadron THIRTEEN (VC-13), embarked from the U.S.S. CORE (CVE-13), during an attack on an enemy German submarine in the Atlantic Area on 14 July 1943. An aggressive and valiant fighter, alert to every attack opportunity, Lieutenant Williams immediately went into action upon sighting the periscope of a German submarine. Launching a vigorous bombing run as the hostile vessel commenced surfacing, he released four depth charges, one of which exploded close aboard the port bow and caused the submarine to submerge slowly on an even keel. His superb airmanship and unswerving devotion to duty in the execution of hazardous submarine patrols reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Williams and the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 337 (April 1945)
Born: August 30, 1918 at Pierre, South Dakota
Home Town: Snoqualmie, Washington
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WILLIAMS, WILEY THOMAS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Wiley Thomas Williams, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron FOURTEEN (VT-14), attached to the U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), in action against major units of the Japanese fleet west of the Marianas Islands during the first Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. Lieutenant Williams' expert airmanship, daring combat tactics and unswerving devotion to duty were important factors in the inflicting of heavy damage on the enemy during this historic engagement, and his gallant fortitude throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval service.
Born: at Anding, Mississippi
Home Town: Mechanicsburg, Mississippi

WILLIAMS, WILLIAM THOMAS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Thomas Williams, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron FORTY-SEVEN (VT-47), embarked from the U.S.S. BATAAN (CVL-29), in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over Kyushu, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WILLIAMSON, EDWARD JAMES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward James Williamson, Chief Aviation Pilot, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron FIVE (VT-5), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Tulagi Harbor on 4 May 1942, and in the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. These attacks, vigorously and persistently pressed home in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, and on 8 May opposed also by enemy fighters, resulted in the sinking or damaging of at least eight enemy Japanese vessels at Tulagi and the sinking of one carrier and the sinking or severe damaging of another in the Coral Sea. Chief Aviation Pilot Williamson's conscientious devotion to duty and gallant self-command against formidable odds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 16, 1909 at Tiverton, Rhode Island
Home Town: San Diego, California

WILLIAMSON, FRANCIS THOMAS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Francis Thomas Williamson, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. CRAVEN (DD-382), during a surface engagement with enemy Japanese forces at Vella Gulf, Solomon Islands, on the night of 6 - 7 August 1943. Lieutenant Commander Williamson maneuvered his ship and struck boldly with well-timed and perfectly coordinated torpedo attacks, which resulted in the sinking of one Japanese cruiser and three destroyers. He brought his ship through the engagement without loss or damage. Lieutenant Commander Williamson's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 326 (May 1944)
Born: April 28, 1907 at Tiverton, Rhode Island
Home Town: Tiverton, Rhode Island

*WILLIAMSON, JOHN LEON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Leon Williamson, Seaman First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as Antiaircraft Gunner aboard the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island in the Solomons on the night of on November 12 and 13 1942. Seaman First Class Williamson fired at an approaching Torpedo Plane, remaining at his station with cool determination as the enemy aircraft crashed directly at his gun mount. His grim perseverance and relentless devotion to duty in the face of certain death were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his own life in the defense of his country.
Born: November 5, 1921 at Ash, North Carolina
Home Town: Ash, North Carolina

WILLIAMSON, THOMAS BINNEY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas Binney Williamson, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. KALININ BAY (CVE-68), during a strike against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet, in the Battle off Samara Island on 25 October 1944. When a formidable column of Japanese battleships, cruisers and destroyers attacked our small Task Unit of Escort Carriers, Captain Williamson skillfully maneuvered his ship to avoid crippling blows from the constant, three hour bombardment, and successfully brought his ship through this history-making battle, thereby contributing essentially to the eventual rout of this powerful Japanese force. His leadership, determine fighting spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 9, 1901 at Edwardsville, Illinois
Home Town: Edwardsville, Illinois

WILLINGHAM, JOSEPH HARRIS, JR.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph Harris Willingham, Jr., Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TAUTOG (SS-199), on a War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. The notable successes of Lieutenant Commander Willingham and his command against a ruthless and formidable enemy, enhance and sustain the high traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 20, 1905 at Pell City, Alabama
Home Town: Pell City, Alabama
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WILLINGHAM, JOSEPH HARRIS, JR.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Joseph Harris Willingham, Jr., Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TAUTOG (SS-199), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 24 April 1942 to 11 June 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the Marshall Islands. While conducting war patrol in the vicinity of a fortified enemy base, Lieutenant Commander Willingham contacted and engaged two surfaced enemy Japanese submarines, sinking them both in spite of rigorous enemy air and surface patrol. Again, in a surprise contact, a submerge enemy Japanese submarine was sunk by torpedo fire while still submerged as it was maneuvering to attack. In two subsequent engagements, the Tautog sank three auxiliary vessels loaded with war material. These notable successes of Lieutenant Commander Willingham and his command against a ruthless and formidable enemy, enhance and sustain the high traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 20, 1905 at Pell City, Alabama
Home Town: Pell City, Alabama
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WILLINGHAM, JOSEPH HARRIS, JR.
(Third Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Joseph Harris Willingham, Jr., Commander [then Commander], U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BOWFIN (SS-287), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 16 August 1942 to 11 October 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea. Participating in vigorous and intensive attacks against hostile shipping on numerous occasions while on a special assignment, Captain Willingham skillfully maneuvered his ship for maximum combat efficiency and, striking hard with both gun and torpedo fire, succeeded in destroying five hostile merchant ships. With unwavering devotion to duty, he expertly frustrated all enemy countermeasures in each instance and brought his crew and craft through without damage. By his brilliant tactical ability and inspiring leadership, Captain Willingham made possible the successful completion of an extremely vital mission and his gallant conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 20, 1905 at Pell City, Alabama
Home Town: Pell City, Alabama
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*WILLIS, JAMES S.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James S. Willis, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer Division FORTY-EIGHT (DesDiv 48), in action on 6 April 1945, at Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. Commander Willis' conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

WILLIS, MEADE H., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Meade H. Willis, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession, in combat with the enemy in the Philippine Islands during the period of 7 December 1941 to 28 April 1942. While exposed to frequent horizontal and dive bombing attacks by enemy Japanese air forces, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Willis participated in operations of strategic importance involving hazardous missions such as to reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 13, 1909 at Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Home Town: Winston-Salem, North Carolina

*WILLY, WILFORD JOHN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Wilford John Willy, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Co-Pilot of a Navy Liberator Patrol Plane in Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED TEN (VB-110), Special Air Unit ONE (Europe), during a special air mission directed at Mimoyecques, France, on 12 August 1944. Well knowing the extreme dangers involved and totally unconcerned for his own safety, Lieutenant Kennedy unhesitatingly volunteered to conduct an exceptionally hazardous and special operational mission. Intrepid and daring in his tactics and with unwavering confidence in the vital importance of his task, he willingly risked his life in the supreme measure of service, and, by his great personal valor and fortitude in carrying out a perilous undertaking, sustained and enhanced the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: May 13, 1909 at Newark, New Jersey
Home Town: Fort Worth, Texas

WILSON, CARTER L., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Carter L. Wilson, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane in action on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WILSON, DAVID LOUIS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to David Louis Wilson, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action against the enemy fleet in the vicinity of the East Philippine Sea on 20 June 1944. By his brilliant airmanship, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Wilson contributed materially to the success of our operations in this historic engagement, and his great personal valor in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 18, 1922 at Eldorado, Illinois
Home Town: Alton, Illinois

WILSON, DONALD LAWRENCE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Donald Lawrence Wilson, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron EIGHTEEN (VB-18), embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), during the Second Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 24 October 1944. as Pilot of a carrier-based dive bomber, Lieutenant Wilson participated in an attack which contributed materially to the annihilation of an enemy Battle Task Force. He scored a confirmed hit on a rapidly-maneuvering battleship, in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire. The action, in which he was an integral part, successfully accomplished in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft barrages, removed a serious threat to our ground forces in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WILSON, GEORGE J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George J. Wilson, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron SIXTEEN (VT-16), embarked from the U.S.S. RANDOLPH (CV-15), in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WILSON, GEORGE REES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George Rees Wilson, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. CHEVALIER (DD-451), during operations in the Solomon Islands Area on the night of 17 - 18 August 1943. When an enemy Japanese force of four destroyers and a large number of landing barges endeavored under cover of night to reinforce the enemy garrisons in the Vella Lavella-Kolombangara Area, Lieutenant Commander Wilson, with exceptional tactical skill under relentless gun and torpedo fire, led the CHEVALIER in a brilliant interception of the hostile vessels. He fought his ship gallantly and contributed to the destruction of two destroyers, severe damage to a third and the annihilation of a number of landing barges. Having routed the enemy, he brought his vessel through this vital engagement unscathed. The superb leadership and unflinching courage displayed by Commander Wilson and the loyal devotion to duty of his crew reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 16, 1910 at Tallula, Illinois
Home Town: Oakland, California

WILSON, RALPH E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ralph E. Wilson, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. BUCHANAN (DD-484), during action against enemy Japanese naval forces off Savo Island during the Battle of Cape Esperance on the night of 11 - 12 October 1942. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: June 29, 1902 at Boulder, Colorado
Home Town: Salem, Oregon

WILTON, JERRY BARNES
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jerry Barnes Wilton, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron NINETEEN (VB-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Wilton's inspiring courage, daring tactics, and fearless devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 11, 1921 at Sturgis, Michigan
Home Town: Big Rapids, Michigan

WILTSE, LLOYD JEROME
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lloyd Jerome Wiltse, Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as a Task Group Commander, during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands, from 14 through 24 October 1944. Rear Admiral Wiltse's conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: September 11, 1891 at Mitchell, South Dakota
Home Town: Mitchell, South Dakota

*WILTSIE, IRVING D. (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Irving D. Wiltsie, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. LISCOME BAY (CVE-56), during operations at Makin Island in the Gilbert Islands on 24 November 1943. Captain Wiltsie's ship was struck by a Japanese torpedo in the predawn darkness, igniting fires among bombs and ammunition. Fed by aviation gasoline, the flames spread rapidly, and the carrier rocked with explosions. Captain Wiltsie immediately left the bridge and proceeded along the starboard gallery deck level to ascertain the damage to his ship, as communications had been severed early-on. Despite the tremendous structural damage and raging fires, the captain bravely headed aft to determine the full extent of the damage. Damage control efforts failed, however, and the carrier sank soon thereafter. The conduct of Captain Wiltsie throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 327 (June 1944)
Born: November 14, 1898 at Hartford, Connecticut
Home Town: Riverdale, New York

WINCHELL, ALBERT WALDO
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Albert Waldo Winchell, Machinist, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron SIX (VT-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Participating in a vigorous and intensive assault against the Japanese invasion fleet, Machinist Winchell pressed home his attack with relentless determination in the face of a terrific barrage of anti-aircraft fire. The unprecedented conditions under which his squadron launched its offensive were so exceptional that it is highly improbably the occasion may ever recur where other pilots of the service will be called upon to demonstrate an equal degree of gallantry and fortitude. His extreme disregard of personal safety contributed materially to the success of our forces and his loyal conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 312 (March 1943)
Born: September 20, 1911 at Webster City, Iowa
Home Town: San Diego, California

*WINGFIELD, JOHN DAVIS (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Davis Wingfield, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron TWO (VS-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942. In the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire and fighter opposition, Ensign Wingfield made a bold and persistent dive-bombing attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier. When his bomb failed to release during his initial dive on the enemy craft, he returned to the scene of the attack without protection or support to continue his mission, which contributed materially to the destruction of that vessel. His outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 307 (December 1942)
Born: November 4, 1916 at Richmond, Virginia
Home Town: Richmond, Virginia

*WINGO, PERONEAU BROWN (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Peroneau Brown Wingo, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Fleet Tug U.S.S. NAPA (AT-32), during the defense of the Philippine Islands from 18 March 1942 through 9 April 1942. Throughout this period Ensign Wingo directed the fire of his antiaircraft battery and participated in operations of strategic importance in the Manila Bay area involving hazardous missions, while exposed to frequent horizontal and dive-bombing attacks by enemy Japanese air forces. Ensign Wingo's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: July 17, 1918 at Richmond, Virginia
Home Town: Richmond, Virginia

WINTERS, ROBERT LAVERNE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert LaVerne Winters, Hospital Apprentice First Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Assault Battalion of the SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. As a company aid man, Hospital Apprentice First Class Winters went forward with his unit administering medical assistance even though seriously wounded during the approach to the beach. Later, under intense fire, he made his way to a wounded comrade, rendered first aid and dragged him to safety. In organizing a relief party of stretcher bearers he contributed materially to the successful evacuation of at least 20 Marines. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own life, Hospital Apprentice First Class Winters undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: January 21, 1924 at Camas, Washington
Home Town: Portland, Oregon

WINTERS, THEODORE HUGH, JR.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Theodore Hugh Winters, Jr., Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and Flight Leader in Fighting Squadron NINETEEN (VF-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 24 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. Commander Winters' valiant leadership, inspiring courage, daring tactics, and fearless devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 23, 1887 at Society Hill, South Carolina
Home Town: Society Hill, South Carolina
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WINTERS, THEODORE HUGH, JR.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Theodore Hugh Winters, Jr., Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and Commanding Officer of Fighting Squadron NINETEEN (VF-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. Commander Winters' valiant leadership, inspiring courage, daring tactics, and fearless devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 23, 1887 at Society Hill, South Carolina
Home Town: Society Hill, South Carolina
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*WINTLE, JACK WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Jack William Wintle, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession on the Staff of the Commander, South Pacific Force, serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 - 13 November, 1942. On this occasion the force to which Lieutenant Commander Wintle was attached engaged at close quarters and defeated a superior enemy force, inflicting heavy damage upon them and preventing the accomplishment of their intended mission. This daring and intrepid attack, brilliantly executed, led to a great victory for his country's forces. By his indomitable fighting spirit, expert seamanship, and gallant devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander Wintle contributed largely to the success of the battle and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: April 18, 1908 at Pittsburg, Kansas
Home Town: Shreveport, Louisiana

*WIRTH, JOHN L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John L. Wirth, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron THIRTY-ONE (VF-31), embarked from the U.S.S. Cabot (CVL-28), during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 19 June 1944. As a member of a twelve-plane fighter group flying combat air patrol over his Task Group, he answered a call to intercept an enemy group of thirty or more fighters about fifty miles distant and, gallantly leading his air group in the face of these heavy odds, pressed home repeated attacks against the enemy and was personally responsible for the destruction of four of the fifteen hostile aircraft shot down by the six planes from his carrier. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Wirth's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: April 25, 1917 at North Vernon, Indiana
Home Town: Gary, Indiana
Awards: Navy Cross (WWII), 2 Silver Stars (WWII), Purple Heart

WIRTZ, PEYTON L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Peyton L. Wirtz, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Minesweeper U.S.S. ZANE (DMS-14), during operations in the Solomon Islands during the period 7 to 9 August 1942. While his ship was returning from delivering torpedoes and aviation gasoline to Tulagi, she was attacked by three Japanese destroyers. Lieutenant Commander Wirtz without hesitation engaged the enemy and inflicted considerable damage on the superior force before withdrawing to continue his voyage. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 320 (November 1943)
Born: January 6, 1907 at Baltimore, Maryland
Home Town: Mount Washington, Maryland

*WISEMAN, OSBORNE BEEMAN (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Osborne Beeman Wiseman (0-081188), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron THREE (VB-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Defying extreme danger from a concentrated barrage of anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Wiseman, with utter disregard for his own safety, participated in persistent and vigorous attacks against the Japanese invasion fleet, thereby contributing in great measure to the glorious and decisive victory of our forces. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: February 20, 1915 at Zanesville, Ohio
Home Town: Kenneth Square, Pennsylvania

WISNIEWSKI, EDWARD L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward L. Wisniewski, Seaman First Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty as member of a demolition party attached to the Fleet Tug U.S.S. CHEROKEE (AT-66), during the assault on and occupation of French Morocco from 8 to 11 November 1942. Assigned the extremely dangerous task of cutting through an enemy obstruction in order that the U.S.S. DALLAS could navigate up the Sebou River in order to land raiders near a strategic airport, Seaman First Class Wisniewski and his shipmates, on the night of 9 November proceeded with grim determination toward their objective. Despite the treacherous surf, he and his comrades skillfully and courageously accomplished their hazardous mission of cutting the cables at the mouth of the river, as guns from the French fort opened fire. Countering the enemy's attack until out of range, Seaman First Class Wisniewski and the other members of his party, in spite of the enormous breakers which battered their boat, brought her back to safety. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 24, 1920 at Baltimore, Maryland
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland

WODELL, WEBSTER PAGE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Webster Page Wodell, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron NINETEEN (VB-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Wodell's inspiring courage, daring tactics, and fearless devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 12, 1921 at New York, New York
Home Town: Short Hills, New Jersey

WOGAN, THOMAS L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas L. Wogan, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TARPON (SS-175), during the SIXTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 10 January 1943 to 25 February 1943, in waters in the area of Sea of Japan. During many days of search, attack, and escape, Commander Wogan directed his ship with such skill that he was able to sink one freighter and one transport. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Wogan brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 321 (December 1943)
Born: February 9, 1909 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

WOOD, CHESTER CLARK
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Chester Clark Wood, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander of VD-69, a Radar Picket Station, from 3 May 1945 to 21 June 1945, at Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. Captain Wood's conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

WOOD, EDWARD EUGENE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward Eugene Wood, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron THIRTY-ONE (VT-31), embarked from the U.S.S. CABOT (CVL-28), in action against major units of the Japanese fleet west of the Marianas Islands during the first Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Wood's expert airmanship, daring combat tactics and unswerving devotion to duty were important factors in the inflicting of heavy damage on the enemy during this historic engagement, and his gallant fortitude throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval service.
Born: April 10, 1920 at Great Falls, Montana
Home Town: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

WOOD, GEORGE ORR
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George Orr Wood, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWO (VB-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942. In the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Wood dived his plane at an enemy Japanese aircraft carrier and released his bomb with calm accuracy. By grim determination and expert appraisal of his objective, he contributed materially to the high percentage of hits inflicted by his particular squadron and assisted in ultimate destruction of the enemy carrier. His individual action was an important factor in the collective success of those United States Naval forces which engaged in the enemy in the Battle of the Coral Sea. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Wood's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 307 (October 1942)
Born: April 4, 1915 at Sacramento, California
Home Town: Galt, California

*WOOD, HARRY (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Harry Wood, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron TWO (VS-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. Participating in a dive-bombing attack on an enemy aircraft carrier on 7 May, Ensign Wood aided materially in the sinking of the vessel by pressing home his attack with skill and determination. After successfully carrying out an attack on another enemy carrier on 8 May, in which he contributed to either severe damage or complete destruction of the vessel by obtaining a direct hit with a 1,000 pound bomb, he reported the completion of his mission, then failed to return. His outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 311 (February 1943)
Born: December 11, 1917 at Noble, Illinois
Home Town: Noble, Illinois

WOOD, HUGH, JR.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Hugh Wood, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Bomber and Flight Leader in Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-TWO (VB-82), embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), on 19 Mary 1945, while deployed over Hiroshima Bay, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WOOD, HUGH, JR.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Hugh Wood, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Bomber and Flight Leader of Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-TWO (VB-82), embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), on 19 Mary 1945, while deployed over Hiroshima Bay, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WOOD, HUNTER, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Hunter Wood, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of this profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. SMITH (DD-378), during the engagement with enemy Japanese forces north of the Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942. When a flaming enemy plane crashed on the forecastle, its torpedo exploding, Lieutenant Commander Wood, despite fierce and determined aerial attacks, a raging fire, and exploding ammunition, handled his ship with such daring skill that he was able to maintain his station in the carrier's screen and to furnish valuable protection against the attacking Japanese planes. Gallantly fighting the portions of his battery which were still effective, he minimized the damage to our own forces and dealt continued heavy blows on the enemy. His expert seamanship, outstanding courage, and indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 317 (August 1943)
Born: July 6, 1902 at Hopkinsville, Kentucky
Home Town: Hopkinsville, Kentucky

WOOD, LLOYD NELSON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lloyd Nelson Wood, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scout Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron THIRTEEN (VB-13), embarked from the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Sibuyan Sea during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. In the face of continuous and intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy air opposition, Lieutenant Wood pressed home a determined dive bombing attack on a hostile aircraft carrier and, accurately releasing his bomb load at perilously low altitude, scored a direct hit which contributed to its sinking. By his superb flying ability, indomitable fighting spirit and cool courage, maintained at great personal risk, Lieutenant Wood contributed immeasurably to the extensive and costly damage inflicted on the Japanese fleet in this vital war area. His conduct throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 340 (July 1945)
Born: January 17, 1920 at St. Louis, Missouri
Home Town: Villa Ridge, Missouri

WOODHULL, ROGER B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Roger B. Woodhull, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron FIVE (VS-5), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Tulagi Harbor on 4 May 1942, and in the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. These attacks, vigorously and persistently pressed home in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, and on 8 May opposed also by enemy fighters, resulted in the sinking or damaging of at least eight enemy Japanese vessels at Tulagi and the sinking of one carrier and the sinking or severe damaging of another in the Coral Sea. Lieutenant Woodhull's conscientious devotion to duty and gallant self-command against formidable odds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 26, 1914 at Los Angeles, California
Home Town: San Antonio, Texas

*WOODRUFF, THOMAS JOSEPH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Thomas Joseph Woodruff, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWENTY (VF-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action on 24 and 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 30, 1918 at St. Louis, Missouri
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

WOODS, THOMAS ALTUS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas Altus Woods, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces in the vicinity of the Philippine Islands during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Fearlessly pressing home his attack to low altitude in the face of accurate and intense antiaircraft fire from the formidable enemy disposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Woods succeeded in scoring one of eight direct hits upon a Japanese aircraft carrier of CHITOSE class, in a strike so effectively disposed that the resulting successive hits upon this ship caused it's almost immediate sinking. Undaunted in the face of relentless, devastating antiaircraft fire, he rendered gallant service during the bitterly fought engagement in which all carriers, a light cruiser and a destroyer of the enemy's task force were sunk and heavy bomb and torpedo damage inflicted on battleships and other important naval units. By his daring airmanship, exceptional courage and steadfast devotion to duty through a perilous assignment, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Woods contributed materially to the sinking of this valuable enemy fighting unit and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 6, 1916 at Grenada, Mississippi

*WOODSIDE, DARRELL D. (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Darrell D. Woodside (03211769), Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from Naval Air Station Midway during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 and 5 June 1942. In the first attack against an enemy carrier of the Japanese invasion fleet, Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class Woodside pressed home his attack in the face of withering fire from enemy Japanese fighters and anti-aircraft forces. Because of events attendant upon the Battle of Midway, there can be no doubt that he gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country. His courage and utter disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: March 30, 1919 at Taylor County, Iowa
Home Town: Clearfield, Iowa

*WOODSON, JEFF DAVIS (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Jeff Davis Woodson (0-136953), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Grimly aware of the hazardous consequences of flying without fighter protection, and with insufficient fuel to return to his carrier, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Woodson resolutely, and with no thought of his own life, delivered an effective torpedo attack against violent assaults of enemy Japanese aircraft fire. His courageous action, carried out with a gallant spirit of self-sacrifice and a conscientious devotion to the fulfillment of his mission, was a determining factor in the defeat of the enemy forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 317 (August 1943)
Born: June 10, 1908 at Autman, Texas
Home Town: Vallejo, California

WOODSON, WILLIAM HOWELL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Howell Woodson, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CVL-10), while participating in aerial combat against the Japanese Fleet in the Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. By his airmanship and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Woodson contributed materially to the infliction of extensive and costly damage on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive engagement and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 28, 1917 at Portsmouth, Virginia
Home Town: Norfolk, Virginia

WOOLLEN, WILLIAM STONE
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Stone Woollen, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron FORTY-TWO (VF-42), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against the Japanese forces on 8 May 1942, during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 22, 1914 at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Home Town: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WOOLLEN, WILLIAM STONE
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to William Stone Woollen, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron THREE (VF-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. The outstanding courage and determined skill displayed by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Woollen were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 22, 1914 at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Home Town: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WORDELL, MALCOLM TABER
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Malcolm Taber Wordell, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and Section Leader in Fighting Squadron FORTY-ONE (VF-41), attached to the U.S.S. RANGER (CV-4), during the occupation of French Morocco, from 8 to 11 November 1942. When a force of hostile cruisers and destroyers was observed bearing down upon our transports at Fedala, Lieutenant Wordell led a flight of sixteen planes through terrific anti-aircraft fire to intercept their attack. Pressing home vigorous and persistent strafing raids in support of a furious bombardment from our own surface ships, he contributed materially to the relentless fighting spirit which enabled our forces to set fire to three of the enemy vessels and drive off the others. No longer able to carry on because of severe wounds, he successfully extricated himself from a precarious situation by bringing down his badly damaged plane in a skillful forced landing. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 22, 1911 at Dartmouth, Massachusetts
Home Town: Norfolk, Virginia
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WORDELL, MALCOLM TABER
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Malcolm Taber Wordell, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane deployed over Samar in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944, in the Philippine Islands. Commander Wordell's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 22, 1911 at Dartmouth, Massachusetts
Home Town: Norfolk, Virginia
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*WORDEN, DONALD DORIS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Donald Doris Worden, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Bomber in Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-TWO (VB-82), embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), on 19 Mary 1945, while deployed over Hiroshima Bay, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Donald Worden was killed in action in 1953 while serving in the Korean War.

*WORLEY, HARRY W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Harry W. Worley, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Bomber, in Bombing Squadron NINE (VB-9), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), on 7 April 1945, and deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WORTHINGTON, ROKBERT K.R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Rokbert K.R. Worthington, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BALAO (SS-285), on the EIGHTH War Patrol of that submarine during February and March 1943, in enemy controlled waters. Tenaciously attacking the enemy at every quarter, Lieutenant Commander Worthington launched aggressive attacks which resulted in sinking enemy ships for a total of more than 20,000 tons. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Worthington brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WOYKE, MAX E. E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Max E. E. Woyke, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 22, 1914 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

WRENN, GEORGE L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George L. Wrenn, Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SEVENTY-TWO (VF-72), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the engagement with enemy Japanese naval and air forces near the Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WRIGHT, CARLETON H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Carleton H. Wright, Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Task Force WILLIAM (TF-57), during operations against enemy Japanese forces in enemy-controlled waters during the Battle of Tassafaronga on the night of 30 November 1942. Rear Admiral Wright, at a critical hour in the campaign, intercepted the approaching enemy forces, inflicting severe damage to a number of enemy ships, and defeated the enemy's persistent attempts to land troops and supplies on Guadalcanal. Rear Admiral Wright's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 318 (September 1943)
Born: June 2, 1892 at New Hampton, Iowa
Home Town: Chapel Hill, North Carolina

WRIGHT, GAYDON DEE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Gaydon Dee Wright, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in action as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, while participating in aerial combat against the Japanese Fleet in the Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. By his airmanship and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Wright contributed materially to the infliction of extensive and costly damage on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive engagement and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 3, 1921 at Carbondale, Kansas
Home Town: Parsons, Kansas

WRIGHT, JACK LOVELL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jack Lovell Wright, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while participating in aerial combat against the Japanese Fleet in the Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. By his airmanship and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Wright contributed materially to the infliction of extensive and costly damage on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive engagement and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 10, 1920 at St. Joseph, Missouri
Home Town: St. Joseph, Missouri

*WRIGHT, JOHN WESLEY, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Wesley Wright, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane in in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

WRIGHT, RICHARD LEE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard Lee Wright, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron THREE (VF-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. The outstanding courage and determined skill displayed by Ensign Wright were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 25, 1918 at South Pittsburgh, Tennessee
Home Town: Jonesville, Virginia

WRIGHT, SPENCER DOWNS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Spencer Downs Wright, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SEVENTY-ONE (VF-71), embarked from the U.S.S. WASP (CV-7), in leading his section in the initial aerial attack on the Japanese positions in the Solomon Islands on 7 August 1942. Lieutenant Wright's section covered the landing operations on Gavutu and Tanambogo Islands. Attacking a flight of Japanese seaplanes off Gavutu, Lieutenant Wright's section shot down six flying boats, then destroyed a motor launch on the sea. He personally accounted for three of the planes and the boat. Lieutenant Wright then led his fliers in a strafing assault on the enemy shore installations on the two islands, destroying fuel and ammunition dumps, buildings and motor vehicles, and hampering Japanese troop movements, thus paving the way for the landing of the American ground forces and contributing greatly to the successful occupation of the islands. Lieutenant Wright's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 314 (May 1943)
Born: May 24, 1913 at Newberry, South Carolina
Home Town: Newberry, South Carolina

WRIGHT, WENDELL PHILIP
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Wendell Philip Wright, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWENTY (VB-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during action against units of the Japanese Fleet in waters west of the Central Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Flying as wingman on a search and attack mission when an enemy task force was sighted and his division was assigned an aircraft carrier as a target, Ensign Wright defied the withering barrages of antiaircraft fire to dive low over the hostile warship and release his bombs at perilously low altitude to score direct hits which started fires and contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage on the Japanese vessel. His superb airmanship, inspiring courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Ensign Wright and the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 30, 1920 at St. Johnsbury, Vermont
Home Town: St. Johnsbury, Vermont

WRIGHT, WHITNEY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Whitney Wright, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy Heavy Patrol Plane of Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED FOUR (VPB-104), in combat against Japanese forces near Leyte in the South Pacific from 26 August 1943 to 3 November 1943. In the face of intense antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Wright pressed home his attacks, destroying or seriously damaging one enemy gunboat, one loaded troop transport and one cargo vessel. On 8 September he was attacked by seven Japanese airplanes while maneuvering to complete the destruction of an enemy bomber. After a twenty- minute battle he eluded the fighters and returned to his base with his plane undamaged. Lieutenant Wright's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 336 (March 1945)
Born: May 22, 1915 at Boston, Massachusetts
Home Town: Waterville, Maine

WRIGHT, WILLIAM ALEXANDER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Alexander Wright, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. His courage, daring tactics and fearless devotion to duty were essential factors in the success of our forces and reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Wright and the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 8, 1917 at Royal Oak, Michigan
Home Town: Wilmette, Illinois

WRIGHT, WILLIAM LESLIE
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Leslie Wright, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. STURGEON (SS-187), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 28 December 1941 to 20 February 1942, in enemy controlled waters off the Coast of Borneo. On the night of 22 January, STURGEON was alerted by the U.S.S. PICKEREL (SS-177), that a large convoy was headed her way in Makassar Strait. A few minutes later, her sonar picked up the pings of ships dead astern. She submerged and fired four torpedoes at a large ship, with two explosions following. The submarine was then subjected to a two and one-half hour depth charge attack by two destroyers which caused no damage. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Wright brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 19, 1902 at Roby, Texas
Home Town: Corpus Christi, Texas
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WRIGHT, WILLIAM LESLIE
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to William Leslie Wright, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. STURGEON (SS-187), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 15 March 1942 to 7 May 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the Makassar Straits. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Wright brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 19, 1902 at Roby, Texas
Home Town: Corpus Christi, Texas
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

WYLIE, WILLIAM NAYLOR
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Naylor Wylie, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SCORPION (SS-278), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 5 April 1945 to 8 May 1945, in enemy controlled waters of the Sea of Japan. In addition to sinking an important amount of enemy shipping, including a brilliant attack on a strongly escorted freighter, Commander Wylie's excellent supervision resulted in the success of a special vital mission by his submarine. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Wylie brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 324 (March 1944)
Born: October 14, 1907 at Tiffin, Ohio
Home Town: Brevard, North Carolina

WYRICK, JAMES WOODROW
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James Woodrow Wyrick, Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in the Solomon Islands, in 1942. Ensign Wyrick's conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: October 12, 1918 at Havre, Montana
Home Town: San Francisco, California

YEAMAN, JOHN MARK
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Mark Yeaman, Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Division Leader in Composite Squadron TWENTY-SEVEN (VC-27), embarked from the U.S.S. SAVO ISLAND (CVE-78), in action against major units of the Japanese Fleet during the battle for Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands, on 25 October 1944. A daring and aggressive airman, Lieutenant Yeaman skillfully led his torpedo division through a barrage of intense antiaircraft fire to score two hits on an enemy cruiser. His superb combat tactics and courage contributed to the success of our forces in this decisive engagement and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 16, 1922 at Maryville, Missouri
Home Town: Weston, Missouri

*YOUNG, CASSIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Cassin Young (0-009615), Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 - 13 November, 1942. On this occasion the force to which Captain Young was attached engaged at close quarters and defeated a superior enemy force, inflicting heavy damage upon them and preventing the accomplishment of their intended mission. This daring and intrepid attack, brilliantly executed, led to a great victory for his country's forces. By his indomitable fighting spirit, expert seamanship, and gallant devotion to duty, Captain Young contributed largely to the success of the battle and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: March 6, 1894 at Washington, D.C.
Home Town: , Wisconsin
Awards: Medal of Honor (WWII), Navy Cross (WWII), Purple Heart

YOUNG, CHARLES E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles E. Young, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron NINE (VF-9), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

YOUNG, DON JOHN, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Don John Young, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scout Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron THIRTEEN (VB-13), embarked from the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Sibuyan Sea during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. By his superb flying ability, indomitable fighting spirit and cool courage, maintained at great personal risk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Young contributed immeasurably to the extensive and costly damage inflicted on the Japanese fleet in this vital war area. His conduct throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 6, 1920 at Fort Worth, Texas
Home Town: Fort Worth, Texas

YOUNG, EDWARD W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward W. Young, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Commander of a Radar Picket Station, in action against the enemy from 10 May 1945 to 24 June 1945, at Okinawa, in the Ryukyu Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

YOUNG, GRANT C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Grant C. Young, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Combat Plane in Air Group TEN (AG-10), embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

YOUNG, HOWARD LEYLAND
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Howard Leyland Young, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. OMMANEY BAY (CVE-79), in a surface engagement with a large task force of the Japanese Fleet near the Island of Samar in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Captain Young conducted his command gallantly and with courageous initiative, inspiring his officers and men and the Ommaney Bay air personnel throughout the critical and fiercely fought Battle for Leyte Gulf against a powerful force of Japanese battleships, cruisers and destroyers. His superb seamanship and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of overwhelming odds were important factors in turning potential defeat into a decisive victory over the Central Japanese Force. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 342 (September 1945)
Born: November 23, 1901 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: New Iberia, Louisiana

YOUNG, OWEN DEWITT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Owen DeWitt Young, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Night Fighting Squadron NINETY (VF(N)-90), in action on 13 May 1945, while deployed over Kyushu, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

ZACEK, EDWARD CASIMIR
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward Casimir Zacek, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Boat Wave Commander during the amphibious assault at Salerno, Italy, on 9 September 1943. Undeterred by fierce opposition, Ensign Zacek courageously proceeded through heavy enemy gunfire off the assault beaches and while leading a wave of tank lighters to designated landing position was seriously wounded in the head and hip. Disregarding his own grave condition, he persisted with the landing operations and ordered the unloading to be continued and boats retracted for return to the ship before he would receive first aid. The conduct of Ensign Zacek throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 326 (May 1944)
Born: October 7, 1920 at West Point, Nebraska
Home Town: West Point, Nebraska

ZALEWSKI, CHESTER VINCENT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Chester Vincent Zalewski, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron SEVENTY-ONE (VS-71), embarked from the U.S.S. WASP (CV-7), in action against Japanese forces on 25 August 1942, while deployed over the Solomon Islands. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Zalewski's outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 16, 1916 at Dickson City, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Dickson City, Pennsylvania

ZANETTI, VINCENT PAUL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Vincent Paul Zanetti, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. Fearlessly pressing home his attack to low altitude in the face of accurate and intense antiaircraft fire from the formidable enemy disposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Zanetti succeeded in scoring a direct hit upon a Japanese aircraft carrier of ZUIKAKU class, contributing to its rapid sinking. Undaunted in the face of relentless, devastating antiaircraft fire, he rendered gallant service during the bitterly fought engagement in which all carriers, a light cruiser and a destroyer of the enemy's task force were sunk and heavy bomb and torpedo damage inflicted on battleships and other important naval units. By his daring airmanship, exceptional courage and steadfast devotion to duty through a perilous assignment, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Zanetti contributed materially to the sinking of this valuable enemy fighting unit and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

ZEIMANTZ, CHRISTOPHER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Christopher Zeimantz, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 19 October 1944, while deployed over the Central Philippines, during the Battle for Leyte Gulf. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 1, 1917 at Reardon, Washington
Home Town: Hollywood, California

ZYMROZ, CZESLAW
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Czeslaw Zymroz, Machinist's Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty as member of a demolition party attached to the Fleet Tug U.S.S. CHEROKEE (AT-66), during the assault on and occupation of French Morocco from 8 to 11 November 1942. Assigned the extremely dangerous task of cutting through an enemy obstruction in order that the U.S.S. DALLAS could navigate up the Sebou River in order to land raiders near a strategic airport, Machinist's Mate Second Class Zymroz and his shipmates, on the night of 9 November, proceeded with grim determination toward their objective. Despite the treacherous surf, he and his comrades skillfully and courageously accomplished their hazardous mission of cutting the cables at the mouth of the river, as guns from the French fort opened fire. Countering the enemy's attack until out of range, Machinist's Mate Second Class Zymroz and the other members of his party, in spite of the enormous breakers which battered their boat, brought her back to safety. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 15, 1916 at Holyoke, Massachusetts
Home Town: Springfield, Massachusetts