William W. Wilbourne

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William W. Wilbourne, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Gunnery Officer aboard the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an in action against Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 – 13 November, 1942. During an engagement with major elements of the Japanese fleet, Lieutenant Commander Wilbourne controlled the fire of his offensive weapons in such a rigorous and determined manner that a Japanese battleship was silenced and set afire, a Japanese cruiser was sunk, and a destroyer was sunk. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.