The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Carpenter William S. Thomas, United States Navy, for heroic conduct as a diver during salvage work at Pearl Harbor following the Japanese attack on 7 December 1941. Carpenter Thomas made dives totaling more than 100 hours under water despite extremely hazardous conditions inside wrecked hulls. He contributed largely to the success of the salvage work.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Shipfitter First Class William S. Thomas, United States Navy, for heroism at the risk of life during the attack on the United States Pacific Fleet by enemy Japanese forces at Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, on 7 December 1941. Shipfitter First Class Thomas showed heroic conduct and extreme courage in rescuing from drowning Commander F. M. Rohow, Medical Corps, U.S.N. In spite of severe enemy strafing and bombing, Shipfitter First Class Thomas succeeded in reaching the unconscious medical officer and in keeping him afloat until they were rescued by a small boat. His presence of mind and courage were instrumental in saving the life of an officer of the United States Navy.