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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander William Harry Johnsen (NSN: 0-70260), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of a United States Destroyer in action against a Japanese submarine on 4 July 1944. While on station as an anti-submarine screen of a Task Group, his ship was ordered to assist a fellow ship which had made underwater sound contact. He promptly proceeded to the vicinity and gained immediate sound contact upon a submerged submarine. He then effectively and skillfully maneuvered his ship and made a deliberate depth charge attack. Thereafter sound contact could not be regained even though a thorough and persistent search was made. These indications, plus debris and oil coming to the surface, indicated the destructive damage that had been inflicted on the enemy and which resulted in the probable sinking of the submarine. His keen judgment and outstanding efficiency were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. David W. Taylor (DD-551)

    Action Date:

    January 5, 1945
    Commander Force Area Pacific: Serial 1844 (March 7, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander William Harry Johnsen (NSN: 0-70260), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. DAVID W. TAYLOR during action against the enemy Japanese forces at Chichi Jima, Bonin Islands, on 5 January 1945. Participating in operations against strongly defended shore batteries, Commander Johnsen fought his ship gallantly throughout the action, delivering smashing naval bombardments upon formidable shore installations. Penetrating deep into enemy-home waters, he continued to train his guns on vital hostile strongholds until his ship struck a presumed mine, which demolished a part of the keel, bulkhead and decks and started a fire in the magazine. Remaining steadfast at his station until directed to retire, Commander Johnsen, by his resourcefulness and good judgment, quickly expedited judicious, effective damage-control measures and succeeded in bringing his crippled ship into port. A brilliant leader, Commander Johnsen, by his expert seamanship, resolute conduct and cool courage in the face of grave peril, contributed essentially to the ultimate success of our Naval campaign in this strategic theater of war and his unwavering devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.