The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Willard Ross Laughon, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. RASHER (SS-269), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 19 February 1944 to 4 April 1944, in the Celebes. Vigilant and determined in his search for enemy shipping, Commander Laughon penetrated hazardous Japanese-infested waters and, upon contact with the enemy struck swiftly and with tremendous force to sink five hostile ships totaling 28,502 tons and damage seriously a 7,064-ton vessel. Unfaltering in the fulfillment of his hazardous assignment, he executed a daring reconnaissance mission in the face of intense hostile anti-submarine measures and, handling his ship with swift, evasive tactics succeeded in bringing the RASHER safe to port without injury to ship or crew. Commander Laughon’s staunch courage, professional skill and indomitable fighting spirit throughout a perilous mission reflect great credit upon himself, his valiant command and the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Commander Willard Ross Laughon, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. RASHER (SS-269), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 30 April 1944 to 23 June 1944, in enemy controlled waters in the Celebes. Skillfully employing all resources at his command against enemy shipping in his area of operation, Commander Laughon executed several well-planned and highly aggressive attacks and, despite severe enemy countermeasures, succeeded in sinking five Japanese vessels totaling 24,410 tons and in damaging five others totaling 20,900 tons. His expert seamanship, daring initiative and unfaltering devotion to duty in the face of grave danger reflect the highest credit upon Commander Laughon and the United States Naval Service.