Joseph Harris Willingham, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Joseph Harris Willingham, Jr., 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. TAUTOG (SS-199), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 24 April 1942 to 11 June 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the Marshall Islands. While conducting war patrol in the vicinity of a fortified enemy base, Lieutenant Commander Willingham contacted and engaged two surfaced enemy Japanese submarines, sinking them both in spite of rigorous enemy air and surface patrol. Again, in a surprise contact, a submerge enemy Japanese submarine was sunk by torpedo fire while still submerged as it was maneuvering to attack. In two subsequent engagements, the Tautog sank three auxiliary vessels loaded with war material. These notable successes of Lieutenant Commander Willingham and his command against a ruthless and formidable enemy, enhance and sustain the high traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Joseph Harris Willingham, Jr., Commander [then 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. BOWFIN (SS-287), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 16 August 1942 to 11 October 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea. Participating in vigorous and intensive attacks against hostile shipping on numerous occasions while on a special assignment, Captain Willingham skillfully maneuvered his ship for maximum combat efficiency and, striking hard with both gun and torpedo fire, succeeded in destroying five hostile merchant ships. With unwavering devotion to duty, he expertly frustrated all enemy countermeasures in each instance and brought his crew and craft through without damage. By his brilliant tactical ability and inspiring leadership, Captain Willingham made possible the successful completion of an extremely vital mission and his gallant conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph Harris Willingham, Jr., 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. TAUTOG (SS-199), on a War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. The notable successes of Lieutenant Commander Willingham and his command against a ruthless and formidable enemy, enhance and sustain the high traditions of the United States Naval Service.