The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander William N. Richardson, Jr., United States Navy, for distinguished service to the government in a position of great responsibility in command of a detachment of the landing forces in Nicaragua in the Spring of 1927, during the progress of an insurrection in that country. Largely through his excellent judgment, tact, patience and ability, order was maintained and eventual disarmament accomplished with minimum bloodshed, in the district to which he was assigned. His actions at all times were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.