The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Elton Watters Grenfell, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GUDGEON (SS-211), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 13 December 1941 to 29 January 1942, off the coast of Kyushu in Japanese home waters. Lieutenant Commander Grenfell was patrolling in enemy waters when a 5,000 ton vessel was sighted. It was torpedoed and sank to the bottom. En route to base upon completion of his patrol, Lieutenant Commander Grenfell received information that Japanese submarines were nearby. He ordered a change of course to intercept them and not long after took his ship up to periscope depth. Underway on the surface dead ahead was a Japanese submarine, its lookouts unaware of his submarine’s approach. Three torpedoes were fired and the enemy submarine was damaged. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Grenfell brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.