John Leon Williamson

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.