The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Lieutenant Colonel Ira L. Kimes, United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious service to the Government of the United States in a duty of great responsibility as Commanding Officer of Marine Aircraft Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), during the Battle of Midway, 4 to 5 June 1942. Although all facilities at Eastern Island were terrifically over-burdened, Lieutenant Colonel Kimes, by his untiring efforts and his outstanding professional skill, expedited smooth and efficient operations against the enemy. Despite the violent strafing and bombing on Eastern Island by enemy carrier-based aircraft on 4 June, our planes were re-serviced and rearmed in the minimum of time and with perfect coordination. His painstaking forethought in organization and his loyal devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.