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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 Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander William Arthur Overton (NSN: 0-72479), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the U.S.S. SKATE (SS-305), during a War Patrol of that Submarine during World War II. His outstanding skill and efficiency in the performance of his duties materially assisted his Commanding Officer in rescuing six downed aviators under extremely hazardous conditions during which this submarine was strafed twice, bombed three times, and fired on by shore batteries three times. His coolness and high devotion to duty contributed directly to the success of his vessel in evading severe enemy countermeasures. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men in his ship, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Skate (SS-305)

    Action Date:

    February 5 – March 17, 1944
    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 05950 (October 26, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander William Arthur Overton (NSN: 0-72479), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties as Torpedo Data Computer Operator in the U.S.S. SKATE (SS-305) during the THIRD War Patrol of that Submarine from 5 February 1944 to 17 March 1944. His ability to quickly and accurately solve the Torpedo fire control problems, and his able assistance to his Commanding Officer, contributed directly to the sinking of a 7,000 tons Japanese light cruiser of the AGANO Class. His efficiency and coolness during severe enemy counter-measures contributed directly to his ship’s success in conducting successful evasive tactics. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the offices and men in his ship, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.