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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Leon Nelson Blair (NSN: 0-57935), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FOUR from 20 October 1943 to 16 August 1944. Because of his energetic leadership, initiative, excellent judgment and professional skill, the submarines of his division completed twenty-two successful war patrols in enemy waters, culminating in the sinking of thirty-four enemy ships totaling 207,884 tons, and damaging twenty-one enemy ships totaling 133,743 tons. In addition, submarines of other division trained under his direction and able supervision have accounted for many more tons of enemy shipping sunk and damaged. Much of the credit for the brilliant record established by submarines of Division FORTY-FOUR as a result of their many successful war patrols and severe damage inflicted upon the enemy was due to his efficient administration and reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    Submarine Division 44

    Action Date:

    May 16 – July 1, 1944
    Commander In Chief Pacific Fleet: Serial 04577 (September 3, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Leon Nelson Blair (NSN: 0-57935), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander of a Coordinated Attack Group of Submarines (Submarine Division 44), operating in waters west of the Mariana Islands and in the China Sea, south of Formosa, during the period from 16 May 1944 to 1 July 1944. By his outstanding administrative ability and knowledge of submarine warfare, and as a result of many material contributions and efficient handling of this attack group, the submarines under his command sank eight enemy ships totaling 63,200 tons and damaged two others totaling 11,900 tons. Much of the credit for these submarines’ aggressiveness and successful attacks, in spite of severe enemy counter-measures, was largely due to his efficient administration and inspiring leadership in coordinating these submarines into an efficient attack force. Commander Blair’s conduct was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.