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.