Medal of Honor: W. Badders

WILLIAM BADDERS

Chief Machinist's Mate, US Navy

Born: 16 September 1900, Harrisburg, Ill.

Citation: For extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession during the rescue and salvage operations following the sinking of the U.S.S. Squalus [SS 192] on 13 May 1939. During the rescue operations, Badders, as senior member of the rescue chamber crew, made the last extremely hazardous trip of the rescue chamber to attempt to rescue any possible survivors in the flooded after portion of the Squalus. He was fully aware of the great danger involved in that if he and his assistant became incapacitated, there was no way in which either could be rescued. During the salvage operations, Badders made important and difficult dives under the most hazardous conditions. His outstanding performance of duty contributed much to the success of the operations and characterizes conduct far above and beyond the ordinary call of duty.

Note: Chief Badders had previously been awarded the Navy Cross for "extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty" during the salvage of USS S-51 (SS 162) in 1926.