William P. Gruner, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William P. Gruner, 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. SKATE (SS-305), during the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area, on 16 February 1944. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.