The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade William Garfield Thomas, Jr. (NSN: 0-270314), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Number ONE Turret Officer on board the Light Cruiser U.S.S. BOISE (CL-47), during the operations of U.S. Naval Forces in the action against Japanese Naval Forces off Cape Esperance, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 11 – 12 October 1942. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Thomas died at his post in Turret Number ONE after he had informed Control that his turret had been hit and that he had ordered the turret abandoned. From his post in the officers’ booth he could have escaped, but the fact that eight of his men got out while he remained is indisputable proof of his bravery and self-sacrifice. He was last seen telephoning the handling room to order the crew out. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.