The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander William James Ruhe (NSN: 0-82800), United States Navy, conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Co-Approach Officer and Navigator of the U.S.S. CREVALLE (SS-291), during the THIRD War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters in the Pacific War Area from 4 April to 28 May 1944. An alert and daring leader, Lieutenant Commander Ruhe rendered invaluable assistance in the successful prosecution of three separate attacks against heavily protected targets and, by his outstanding resourcefulness, contributed materially to the sinking and damaging of 33,913 tons of hostile shipping. Later, using cool and remarkable judgment in maneuvering his vessel through uncharted and treacherous waters off the coast of Northeast Borneo, he expertly completed his extremely hazardous missions and, by his extraordinary skill and leadership, was a constant inspiration to the officers and men of his ship. His indomitable courage, marked initiative and zealous devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Commander Ruhe, his command and the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] William James Ruhe (NSN: 0-82800), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Gunnery Officer, First Lieutenant and Torpedo Data Computer Operator on board the U.S.S. CREVALLE (SS-291), during the SECOND War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters from 30 December 1943 to 28 February 1944. Exceptionally skilled in training the ship’s crew and operating the fire control equipment during aggressive attacks against the enemy, Lieutenant Commander Ruhe rendered invaluable assistance to his commanding officer and contributed directly to the success of his ship in sinking or severely damaging numerous Japanese vessels totaling more than 39,000 tons. By his inspiring devotion to duty and courageous fighting spirit throughout, Lieutenant Commander Ruhe reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.