William Stephen Ogden

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William Stephen Ogden (04057582), Machinist’s Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in while serving on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. During a hostile air attack when an enemy bomb hit the section near the forward elevator pump room where he and two others were on duty, Machinist’s Mate Second Class Ogden unselfishly permitted his shipmates to precede him in escaping topside through the smoke and flame-filled compartments. Courageously remaining behind, he closed each hatch after his exit to preserve watertight integrity and to prevent the flames from spreading. Reaching the dark, smoke and flame-filled area where the bomb had struck and exploded, he bravely groped his way to the exit and, while securing the last hatch, was overcome by the intense heat and smoke. Falling on top of the hatchway, he was later found still clutching the clamps in his hands. His courageous initiative, self-sacrificing efforts in behalf of his shipmates and loyal devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.