Thomas Binney Williamson

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas Binney Williamson, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. KALININ BAY (CVE-68), during a strike against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet, in the Battle off Samara Island on 25 October 1944. When a formidable column of Japanese battleships, cruisers and destroyers attacked our small Task Unit of Escort Carriers, Captain Williamson skillfully maneuvered his ship to avoid crippling blows from the constant, three hour bombardment, and successfully brought his ship through this history-making battle, thereby contributing essentially to the eventual rout of this powerful Japanese force. His leadership, determine fighting spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.