Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Commander

Unit:

Task Group of Destroyer Transports

Awarded on:

1943

Citation:
"For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander of a Task Group of Destroyer Transports during the attacks on Lae, 4 September 1943, and on Finschhafen, 22 September 1943, and in the landing of reinforcements at Finschhafen, 29 September 1943. In addition to conducting successful landings of initial assault waves at both of these points on New Guinea without loss of a craft or damage to a single ship, Commander Willis led his task group in an effective bombardment of Japanese positions on the island. With courageous leadership and superb military skill, he commanded his Transport Division in difficult operations which reflected the highest degree of training and efficiency, thereby contributing materially to the success of our offensive."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Commander

Unit:

Destroyer Division 48 (DesDiv 48)

Awarded on:

December 17th, 1945

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer Division FORTY-EIGHT (DesDiv 48), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands, on 6 April 1945. Employing his Flagship, the U.S.S. BUSH (DD-529), in the hazardous and vitally important duty of Radar Picket and Fighter Director vessel, Commander Willis skillfully directed the operations conducted by the BUSH and other Naval units assigned to that station, detecting, intercepting, engaging and accounting enemy air raids in that area. Mortally wounded when three enemy suicide planes crashed into and sank his Flagship, Commander Willis, by his brilliant strategy, courage and fortitude contributed materially to the safety and success of United States forces operating within the area protected by units under his command, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."

General Orders: Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 034309 (December 17, 1945).
Awarded posthumously.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Commander

Unit:

U.S.S. Maddox (DD-622)

Awarded on:

1945

Citation:
"For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. MADDOX (DD-622) during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific Area from December 1944 to January 1945. During the carrier-borne strike on Luzon, Formosa, French Indo-China and the China Coast, Commander Willis ably directed his ship in providing early warning of enemy aircraft, identifying and homing returning planes and rescuing personnel from downed planes, thereby contributing materially to the protection of our ships and personnel. His leadership, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Awarded with "V" for Valor.
Awarded posthumously.
Second LoM awarded in the form of a golden star to be placed on the ribbon of the first LoM.