The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant William N. Thies, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron FORTY-ONE (VP-41), Patrol Wing FOUR, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Aleutian Islands, Territory of Alaska, during the period 1 through 15 June 1942. Despite the hazards of severe weather conditions, Lieutenant Thies constantly sought out and engaged the enemy, inspiring other members of his squadron to supreme efforts by his example of zealous aggressiveness. Boldly defying continuous and heavy anti-aircraft fire, he participated in all-night aerial patrols and bombing attacks on enemy Japanese ships in Kiska Harbor and succeeded in scoring a hit on an enemy transport. His find spirit of determination in accomplishing difficult and dangerous missions and his outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.