The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Reuben Thornton Whitaker (NSN: 0-73342), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. FLASHER (SS-249), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 6 January 1944 to 29 February 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific. With skill and determination, employing all the resources at his command, despite the presence of surface and air escorts, Lieutenant Commander Whitaker attacked and succeeded in sinking four valuable enemy ships and one sampan, totaling 26,522 tons, and successfully evaded strong enemy counter measures without damage. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Commander Reuben Thornton Whitaker (NSN: 0-73342), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. FLASHER (SS-249), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 30 August 1944 to 20 October 1944, in enemy controlled waters in the area west of Manila, Philippine Islands. The courage and aggressiveness displayed by Commander Whitaker, in another outstanding patrol of his vessel, was an inspiration to all personnel. In the face of very intense anti-submarine measures, from the air as well as from escorts, he fearlessly led his ship in three successful attacks. Three enemy cargo ships and one troop ship were sunk for a total of 23,000 tons, and a large 4,000 ton ship was severely damaged. The FLASHER also maintained excellent area coverage while carrying on life guard duties. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Reuben Thornton Whitaker (NSN: 0-73342), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. FLASHER (SS-249), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 19 June 1944 to 7 August 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea. Lieutenant Commander Whitaker resolutely and aggressively attacked at every opportunity and sank six enemy merchant vessels from two exceptionally well-escorted convoys, for a total of 42,800 tons. In addition he courageously attacked and sank a 5,100 tone Japanese Light Cruiser of the NUMA Class. As the Officer in Tactical Command of a Coordinated Search and Attack Group he displayed excellent judgment, and under his direction this group accounted for the destruction of a total of 79,600 tons of enemy shipping. His professional skill and great personal courage were an example and an inspiration to his officers and crew. His actions and conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.