William Badders

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Chief Machinist’s Mate William Badders, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as a Diver with the Submarine and Rescue Salvage Unit, U.S.S. Falcon, during the rescue and salvage operations following the sinking of the U.S.S. Squalus on 13 May 1939. During the rescue operations, Chief Machinist’s Mate 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, Chief Machinist’s Mate 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.

The Navy Cross is presented to William Badders, Engineman First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty as a Diver, on the occasion of the salvaging of the U.S.S. S-51, October 16, 1925 to July 8, 1926.