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 with Combat “V” to Captain James Duke Barner (NSN: 0-17847), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of a United States Warship operating with a Fast Carrier Task Group in Western Pacific waters from 24 April 1945 to 16 July 1945. During this time he participated in strikes covering the occupation of Okinawa and in strikes against the Japanese home islands of Kyushu, Shikoku, Honshu, and Hokkaido. Throughout this period of unremitting offensive activity he distinguished himself by exceptional meritorious conduct in the performance of his duties. Although he joined this Task Group with a new ship and an inexperienced crew, he exercised command with outstanding skill and determination and through his tireless efforts maintained a high state of combat readiness and fighting efficiency. His outstanding service and performance of duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Barner is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain James Duke Barner (NSN: 0-17847), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S. Naval Station, Astoria, and the CVE Pre-Commissioning Detail, Astoria. Captain Barner achieved distinctive success in commissioning and outfitting vessels of the CVE-55 Class. During the period 8 July 1943 to 8 July 1944, these 50 Escort Carriers were received from the builders yard, outfitted, commissioned and prepared for service in the Fleet. The work included assembly and installation of confidential items of equipment, completion of minor alterations, repairs to defective machinery and equipment, extensive adjustment to machinery and equipment, and continuous inspection. Captain Barner maintained difficult commissioning schedules throughout. So thorough and effective was the work that none of the vessels has suffered serious material casualties at sea. In the successful completion of this vital task with such speed and thoroughness, Captain Barner demonstrated organizational ability and leadership of the highest degree. By his example he inspired every individual and agency connected with the program to extraordinary effort. His efficient performance of duty during a critical period was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.