The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Rear Admiral Bertram Joseph Rodgers, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commander of a naval task force prior to and during the invasion of Southern France in 1944. Admiral Rodgers achieved brilliant success in the landing of assault troops, supplies and mechanized equipment of the 7th Army. His efficient direction of unloading operations of convoys were contributing factors in sustaining the rapid advance of our ground forces into enemy-held territory.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Rear Admiral Bertram Joseph Rodgers, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commander Amphibious Group 11 during the assault and conquest of Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 16 February to 7 March 1945, and Okinawa and other Islands of the Ryukyus from 7 March to 1 May 1945. Admiral Rodgers demonstrated superb tactical and professional ability. Despite repeated attempts by hostile suicide boats to strike our ships and incessant attacks by enemy aircraft, he expertly directed the units under his command in supporting minesweeping and underwater demolition operations in preparation for the main assaults on objectives; supported landings and subsequent advances of our troops; and provided scheduled bombardments in support of our daily attacks against each Japanese stronghold in turn. He thus contributed materially in the conquest of these vital hostile strongholds.