The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Rear Admiral George Hudson Fort, 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 task force prior to and during the capture of Peleliu and Angaur in the Palau group from July to October 1944. Admiral Fort was a master of amphibious warfare, conducting the operations of his command with keen foresight and superb tactical ability. Admiral Fort organized the component elements of his group for a determined offensive and, concentrating his units at the objectives, hurled the full strength of his firepower in a smashing, sustained bombardment which effectively reduced the enemy’s formidable coastal defenses. Landing the ground forces with a minimum of loss, he directed his troops and supporting elements in their relentless sweep across the islands as they stormed the strong hostile garrisons and waged the bitter campaign which resulted in the capture of these strategically important bases. Throughout this period of intensive operations, he distinguished himself by his indomitable leadership, decisive combat tactics and cool courage.