William L. Pryor

The Navy Cross is presented to William L. Pryor, Commander, U.S. Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession in command of the naval ammunition depot, St. Julians Creek. Commander Pryor had the task of providing and arming merchantmen and other auxiliaries and of supplying the main fleet of the Navy in the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and vicinity. In addition to this he was charged with the work of the first mine-laying plant ever developed in this or any other country and with its operation. This work was conducted so efficiently that the bureau was able to keep so many loaded mines available for overseas work that the North Sea barrage was planted without any delay due to lack of material.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William L. Pryor, First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 28th Infantry Regiment, 8th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 10 July 1944, near La C Barville, France. First Lieutenant Pryor elected to remain with his weapons platoon and cover the withdrawal of his company. He alone stood his ground. His intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 8th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.