William F. Dietrich

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William F. Dietrich, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Cargo Ship U.S.S. BELLATRIX (AKA-3), during operations off the shores of Guadalcanal and Tulagi in the Solomon Islands, during the period 7 through 18 September 1942. After participating in the initial attack, Captain Dietrich was subjected to five enemy air attacks in three days while making repeated trips into the hazardous area in order to deliver much needed supplies. On one occasion, with full knowledge that powerful enemy surface forces were in the vicinity, he returned to Guadalcanal unescorted, with a cargo of supplies urgently needed ashore. Captain Dietrich’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. 313 (April 1943)