The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander William Jackson Galbraith (NSN: 0-62687), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Air Defense Officer of the U.S.S. HOUSTON (CA-30), during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battles of the Flores Sea, the Timor Sea and Sunda Strait, on 4, 16 and 28 February 1942, respectively. Maintaining his exposed position under the direct fire of coordinated attacks by squadrons of Japanese planes and strong forces of hostile cruisers and destroyers, Commander Galbraith expertly directed the fire of the entire anti-aircraft battery with devastating effect and, despite the overwhelming odds, contributed to the success of the HOUSTON in dispersing attacking aircraft and protecting Allied convoys with considerable loss to the enemy in planes and shipping. By his courageous leadership, prompt action and valiant devotion to duty in the face of grave peril, Commander Galbraith contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage and destruction upon the Japanese and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Prisoner of War Medal
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Bronze Star Medal
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Prisoner of War Medal
Service:
United States NavyRank:
CommanderDivision:
Prisoner of War (Japan)Action Date:
February 28, 1942 – 1945
NARA Database: Records of World War II Prisoners of War, created, 1942 – 1947Commander William Jackson Galbraith (NSN: 0-62687), United States Navy, was captured by the Japanese after his ship, the U.S.S. Houston (CA-30), was sunk on 28 February 1943, and was held as a prisoner of war until his release in August 1945.
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Bronze Star Medal
Service:
United States NavyRank:
CommanderDivision:
Prisoner of War (Japan)Action Date:
August 1943 – June 1945
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Commander William Jackson Galbraith (NSN: 0-62687), United States Navy, for heroic service while interned as a Prisoner of War of the Japanese at Zentsuji War Prison Camp, Japan, from August 1943 to June 1945. Stouthearted and constant in his concern for others, Commander Galbraith rendered every assistance possible to all English, Australian, Dutch and American prisoners in the camp throughout this long period of internment under rigorous Japanese rule. With the establishment and maintenance of a united front a necessity as conditions rapidly became more acute, he assumed command of the American group and, through his superb leadership and tact in maintaining discipline within the camp, persuaded the Japanese to alleviate the situation for all prisoners. Firm with his officers and fearless in his dealings with the enemy, Commander Galbraith won the respect and admiration of all and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.