BADDERS, WILLIAM
Rank and organization:
Chief Machinist's Mate, U.S. Navy. Place and date: At sea following sinking of
the U.S.S. Squalus, 23 May 1939. Entered service at: Indianapolis, Ind. Born:
16 September 1900, Harrisburg, Ill. Other Navy awards: Navy Cross, Navy-Marine
Corps Medal.
Citation:
For extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession during the rescue and salvage
operations following the sinking of the U.S.S. Squalus on 13 May 1939. During the rescue
operations, Badders, as senior member of the rescue chamber crew, made the last extremely
hazardous trip of the rescue chamber to attempt to rescue any possible survivors in the
flooded after portion of the Squalus. He was fully aware of the great danger involved in
that if he and his assistant became incapacitated, there was no way in which either could
be rescued. During the salvage operations, Badders made important and difficult dives
under the most hazardous conditions. His outstanding performance of duty contributed much
to the success of the operations and characterizes conduct far above and beyond the
ordinary call of duty.
