The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Admiral John Harold Sides, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States from August 1960 to September 1963 as Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Admiral Sides maintained his forces at a high degree of combat readiness, making a marked contribution toward the deterrence of aggression in the Pacific area. Under his leadership, Pacific Fleet Forces have responded with alacrity and efficiency during the recurring international crises, including the renewal of internal dissention and civil war in Laos, contingency operations in Thailand and Vietnam, and continuing tension in the Taiwan Straight. Admiral Sides’ penetrating analysis of the basic problems involved, his logical determination of the proper course to follow, and his enlightened supervision of ensuing actions, insured a positive and timely response to these emergencies.