Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Rear Admiral (Retired) Willard Arthur Saunders, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Director of the International Staff of the Inter-American Defense Board from 1 July 1963 to 31 August 1964. Responsible to the Council of Delegates of the Board for the leadership and guidance required to produce successful solutions to the problems of common hemispheric defense of the American Continent. Rear Admiral Saunders led his staff, comprised of high-ranking officers of diverse nationalities and interests, in the preparation of an unprecedented number of superior studies which have been enthusiastically approved by the Council of Delegates. During this period he contributed to fostering sound and friendly relationships between the U.S. and the other American nations by approaching the problems and projects of the Inter-American Defense Board as being inter-American in nature and demanding of inter-American thought and action for their successful accomplishment.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Grayback (SS-208)

    Action Date:

    February 15 – April 10, 1942
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 306 (September 1942)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Willard Arthur Saunders, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GRAYBACK (SS-208), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 15 February 1942 to 10 April 1942, in enemy controlled waters of off the coast of Guam and Saipan. Lieutenant Commander Saunders directed his ship in several successful attacks on armed enemy vessels without damage or injury to material or personnel of his command. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Saunders brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.