The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant] Wayne Rucker Merrill (NSN: 0-73564), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Assistant Approach Officer on board the U.S.S. GRAMPUS (SS-207), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area from 14 December 1942 to 19 January 1943. Exhibiting excellent judgment and outstanding professional skill throughout the course of prolonged patrols in enemy-controlled waters, Commander Merrill rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in conducting daring and successful attacks which resulted in the sinking of three enemy ships totaling 24,000 tons and the damaging of one hostile destroyer. By his inspiring leadership and unswerving devotion to duty in the face of grave hazards, Commander Merrill upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Wayne Rucker Merrill (NSN: 0-73564), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BATFISH (SS-310), during a War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters of the Pacific during World War II. Maneuvering his vessel through strong enemy escort screens to strike at hostile shipping, protected by aircraft, Commander Merrill launched repeated torpedo attacks to sink two large passenger freighters totaling over 15,000 tons and, despite severe enemy countermeasures, brought his ship safe to port. His devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.