The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Captain Charles Wellborn, Jr., United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander of three destroyer squadrons during the amphibious assault on Italy in January 1944. Captain Wellborn rendered invaluable service during the covering of approach and the initial landings in the face of intense opposition. His brilliant leadership and sound judgment enabled our forces to steer their courses to the assigned beaches, and contributed to the success of the invasion.



