The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Edgar B. Wicklander, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of Landing Craft Infantry THREE HUNDRED FIFTY-SIX (LCI-356), in action against the enemy on 18 May 1945, during the assault on Okinawa Shima. Upon bring his ship alongside the blazing hull of a friendly destroyer (U.S.S. LONGSHAW), Lieutenant Wicklander, in the face of extremely hazardous conditions from enemy shellfire and exploding ammunition, bravely boarded the stricken vessel and with a party of men rescued the survivors and fought the raging fires. When advised salvage was impossible, he refused to leave the scene until a careful check was made and all wounded were removed to a place of safety. His outstanding courage, determination and conspicuous devotion to duty contributed immeasurably to the saving of many lives. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.