James W. Blanchard

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James W. Blanchard (0-61337), Commander [then Commander], U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS-218), during that vessel’s NINTH War Patrol in enemy-controlled waters, from 29 May 1944 to 16 July 1944. Commander Blanchard skillfully and aggressive penetration of enemy escort screens maintained around a large enemy task force enabled him to launch a torpedo attack which resulted in the damaging of a large SKOKAKU class aircraft carrier of 29,800 tons. In an excellent and daring surface gun attack he destroyed a 1,000 ton inter- island enemy steamer, and shelled and damaged the phosphate works on Fais Island. His skillful evasive tactics during enemy counter-measures, and strafing and bombing by enemy planes, enabled him to escape and bring his ship to port without damage. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men, and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.

Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet: Serial 05480 (October 9, 1944)