Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain [then Lieutenant] William Wilkerson Wilbourne (NSN: 0-63125), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Gunnery Officer of the U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), Flagship of a Group of Cruisers and Destroyers, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Cape Esperance, Guadalcanal, on 11 and 12 October 1942. By his expert leadership of the gunner department during this vital battle, Captain Wilbourne directed the SAN FRANCISCO’s guns in inflicting hits on the large hostile force from the beginning of the action until all the enemy ships were sunk, damaged or forced to escape under cover of smoke and darkness. His professional skill, courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Captain Wilbourne and the United States Naval Service. (Captain Wilbourne is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. San Francisco (CA-38)

    Action Date:

    November 12 – 13, 1942
    Commander South Pacific Area and Forces: Serial 066 (November 6, 1942)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander William Wilkerson Wilbourne (NSN: 0-63125), United States 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 the action against Japanese naval forces in the Solomon Islands areas on the night of 12 – 13 November 1942. Lieutenant Commander Wilbourne controlled the fire of offensive weapons so courageously and skillfully that a Japanese battleship was severely damaged and silenced, to be later sunk by cooperating forces, an enemy cruiser was set afire, and an enemy destroyer was sunk. Not once through the entire action, during which a terrific hail of enemy fire enveloped the U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO, was the determination of this gallant officer shaken or the efficiency with which he directed the control of his gun batteries reduced. His remarkable performance under the most adverse conditions, with a multiplicity of targets, many of which were hitting the U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO, contributed largely to the achievement of great victory in this notable engagement. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.