William Lloyd Osborne

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William Lloyd Osborne, Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, during the period 9 April through 11 October 1942, in the Philippine Islands following the surrender at Bataan. Captain William Osborne and escaped American POW Lieutenant Damon Gause, located a 22-foot sailboat with a diesel engine and tattered sails. With no charts or navigation equipment, and little fuel, the two men sailed south in the ship they named “Ruth-Lee” after their wives. Continuing south, while evading enemy patrols and despite one strafing run by an enemy aircraft, the two men neared Australia where they were picked up and rescued. Captain Osborne’s 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 and the United States Army.