The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Electrician First Class Walter Meade Williams, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service as senior wireless operator on the S.S. CITY OF WILMINGTON when that ship was destroyed by fire at sea on the night of 13 April 1918. Electrician First Class Williams stuck to his post very bravely, securing the assistance of three ships, and remaining on that ship until the very last. He left when the ship was enveloped in flames and smoke.