(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Rear Admiral William R. Furlong, United States Navy, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commandant of the Navy Yard, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, from 27 December 1941 to 24 May 1945.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Rear Admiral William Rea Furlong, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commandant of the Pearl Harbor Navy Yard, Territory of Hawaii, during and following the Japanese attack on 7 December 1941. His splendid initiative and untiring efforts were largely responsible for the successful and expeditious manner in which vital salvage was accomplished. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Rear Admiral Furlong and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.