The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Vice Admiral Arthur Schuyler Carpender (NSN: 0-6600), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility as Commander of Allied Naval Forces in the Southwest Pacific Area from 11 September 1942 to 23 November 1943. Vice Admiral Carpender coordinated all naval activities of both United States and Allied forces, utilizing to the utmost advantage the limited resources available. His wide professional experience, sound judgment and energy were of the greatest service in planning and executing combined operations; and his personal vigor and tact enlisted the enthusiastic cooperation of all forces under his command. His forces engaged initially in containing operations and subsequently in both naval and amphibious offensive operations with marked effectiveness in spite of limited means. Vice Admiral Carpender made an invaluable contribution to the success of the campaigns in the Southwest Pacific Area during this critical period.




