Charles W. Wilkins

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Charles W. Wilkins, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. NARWHAL (SS-167), during the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 8 July 1942 to 26 August 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the Kurile Islands. While engaged in hazardous submarine patrol, Commander Wilkins, availing himself of every attack opportunity, pressed home all contacts and succeeded in sinking a total of 14,500 tons of enemy shipping. Commander Wilkins’ 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. 311 (February 1943)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles W. Wilkins, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of this profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. NARWHAL (SS-167), for his participation 1 February 1942, in the attack on the Marshall Islands, and for aggressive and successful action against the enemy while engaged in hazardous submarine patrol in enemy waters during the period 2 February 1942 to 28 March 1942, on the FIRST War Patrol of his vessel. Despite intensive enemy surface patrols, he sank 12,000 tons of enemy merchant shipping without damage or injury to material or personnel of his command. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Wilkins brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.