Navy Federal Credit Union

William Wright graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1936. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Archerfish (SS-311)

    Action Date:

    May 28 – July 15, 1944

    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 05480 (October 9, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander William Harry Wright (NSN: 0-77148), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. ARCHERFISH (SS-311) during the THIRD War Patrol of that Submarine, from 28 May 1944 to 15 July 1944. By his courage, skill and determination, aggressive torpedo attacks were delivered against one heavily escorted convoy and a 1,400 ton destroyer. These successful attacks resulted in the sinking of the destroyer and the damaging of two ships in the convoy totaling 12,000 tons. In addition he performed lifeguard duty during U.S. carrier force air strikes on the Bonin Islands, during which he made a daring surface rescue of a U.S. Naval Aviator, in the face of enemy gunfire from shore batteries and numerous attacks from enemy aircraft. Despite severe enemy counterattacks his skillful evasive tactics enabled him to escape and bring his ship to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.