COMMANDER WILHELM G. ESDERS, United States Navy (then Ensign). For extraordinary heroism as pilot of an airplane of Torpedo Squadron THREE in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway on June 4, 1942. During participation in a torpedo plane assault on Japanese naval units, Ensign Esders, observing his Squadron Commander crash in flames, gallantly took the lead of the squadron and pressed home the attack to a point where it became relatively certain that the succesful accomplishment of his mission would entail a great loss of life. Nevertheless, by his courageous initiative and aggressive leadership, he enabled his squadron to reach its objective and score several hits on enemy aircraft carriers. His loyal devotion to duty and utter disregard of personal safety contibuted materially to the success of our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander Esders resided in Florida.