William Calhoun Thompson, 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 William Calhoun Thompson, 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. CABRILLA (SS-288), on the SIXTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 13 September 1944 to 25 October 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Thompson 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.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 340 (July 1945)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Calhoun Thompson, 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. CABRILLA (SS-288), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 3 July 1944 to 15 August 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Sulu Sea. Commander Thompson relentlessly sought out the enemy during a prolonged period of hazardous undersea operations. In two well-conceived attacks he completely destroyed a convoy which was screened by an escort, including patrol craft and a plane patrol. He took advantage of every favorable attack opportunity and, fighting his ship with determined and aggressiveness, succeeded in sinking and damaging an important amount of vital hostile shipping. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Thompson 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.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 336 (March 1945)