Willis A. Lent

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Willis A. Lent, Lieutenant 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. GRENADIER (SS-210), on the SECOND and THIRD War Patrols of that submarine during the period 12 April 1942 to 10 June 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lent 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.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Willis A. Lent, Lieutenant 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. TRITON (SS-201), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 25 January 1942 to 17 March 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Lieutenant Commander Willis A. Lent took his ship on an aggressive patrol against the enemy in hazardous waters. Despite Japanese air search he sank thousands of tons of Japanese shipping, also returning to base without damage to his submarine or personnel. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.