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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] William John Widhelm (NSN: 0-71503), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane and Commanding Officer of Scouting Squadron EIGHT (VS-8), attached to the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), in the successful aerial action against Japanese naval forces on 26 October 1942, near Santa Cruz Islands. Though met by heavy fighter opposition which shot down four of his planes, and with his own craft losing oil as a result of enemy gun fire, Commander Widhelm led his flight of scout bombers to press home the attack on a large Japanese carrier until he was finally forced to make a water landing close to the enemy fleet. His example of dogged tenacity, leadership and courage inspired all members of his flight and contributed in a large measure to the extremely heavy damage inflicted upon the enemy. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    Scouting Squadron 8 (VS-8)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Hornet (CV-8)

    Action Date:

    June 6, 1942

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant William John Widhelm (NSN: 0-71503), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane and Executive Officer of Scouting Squadron EIGHT (VS-8), attached to the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the “Air Battle of Midway.” On 6 June 1942, Lieutenant Widhelm participated in the bombing and strafing attacks on fleeing enemy forces. In the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire he coolly and methodically without regard for his own safety, attacked the enemy, obtaining a hit on one of the enemy cruisers. His courage and skill contributed to the victory achieved by our forces. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.