The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] Harold Ellsworth Williamson, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Diving Officer of the U.S.S. SNAPPER (SS-185), during the EIGHTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters from 19 October to 14 December 1943. Displaying care and precision in the control of depth, Lieutenant Commander Williamson assisted his Commanding Officer in attacks which resulted in the sinking of enemy ships totaling approximately 20,000 tons, and in the damaging of over 4,000 tons. By his coolness and ability, he contributed directly to the success of his vessel in evading enemy countermeasures, and his devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.