The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Rear Admiral Walter Kenneth Kilpatrick, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Chief of Staff and aide to CincLant, from May 1943 to November 1944. Throughout this important period of development of anti-submarine warfare, Admiral Kilpatrick exercised sound judgment and superior tactical knowledge in his efficient employment of vital equipment and effective procedures. Through his broad vision and tireless effort, he was responsible for establishment of new practices for the conduct of joint air and surface activities of carrier groups.