Wilbet William Dalwitz

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Wilbet William Dalwitz, Motor Machinist’s Mate First Class, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving aboard U.S.S. SCAMP (SS-277), during the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during a heavy depth charging on 18 September 1943. When a hull fitting carried away, allowing a large stream of water under great pressure to enter the ship, Motor Machinist’s Mate First Class Dalwitz threw himself against the stream of water and through a superhuman effort reached the valve which would stop the flow. He managed to shut the valve, thereby preventing serious flooding and the possible loss of U.S.S. SCAMP and her crew. The conduct of Motor Machinist’s Mate First Class Dalwitz 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. 323 (February 1944)