Radioman Third Class William Jacob Graham, Jr. (NSN: 3562378), United States Navy, was captured by the Japanese after the fall of Corregidor, Philippine Islands, on 6 May 1942, and was held as a Prisoner of War until his death while in captivity.
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Radioman Third Class William Jacob Graham, Jr. (NSN: 3562378), United States Navy, was captured by the Japanese after the fall of Corregidor, Philippine Islands, on 6 May 1942, and was held as a Prisoner of War until his death while in captivity.
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Radioman Third Class William Jacob Graham, Jr. (NSN: 3562378), United States Navy, for gallantry in action during the period 22 March to 5 May 1942. Radioman Third Class Graham and his comrades were assigned the dangerous duty of keeping the isolated U.S. Navy Communications Center, Monkey Point, Fort Mills, Corregidor, Philippine Islands, supplied with potable water. This period of approximately six weeks was one of extended, frequent and intense hostile aerial bombardment and artillery fire, particularly upon the terrain over which this duty was performed. In addition it was also their additional duty to make other trips for needed provisions and supplies. The source of drinking water and supplies was located in the vicinity of Malinta Tunnel, a round trip distance of approximately three to four miles from the Communication Center. A minimum of two daily trips was required. These men never once failed to complete their schedule daily assignments, and on several occasions narrowly escaped death when aerial bombs and artillery shells dropped in the vicinity of their vehicle. Theirs was an outstanding example of bravery and devotion to duty. They demonstrated a heroic imperturbability in a dangerous assignment. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.