The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Walter Fred Rodee (NSN: 0-60256), 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.S. ESSEX during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 12 January to 10 March 1952 and from 28 July to 2 September 1952. A capable and inspiring leader, Captain Rodee discharged his many responsibilities with eminent success throughout these periods, molding his crew and embarked air group into a highly efficient fighting organization despite the numerous obstacles presented by increasing shortages of trained personnel and the deficiencies of material. Exhibiting a thorough understanding of the Naval mission in the Korean conflict, he maintained a high state of morale and combat readiness within his units and applied the striking power of his ship against the enemy with maximum effectiveness. His outstanding professional skill, superb judgment and loyal devotion to the fulfillment of vital operations against the enemy reflect the highest credit upon Captain Rodee and the United States Naval Service. (Captain Rodee is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

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 Walter Fred Rodee (NSN: 0-60256), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Chief of Staff and Aide to Commander Carrier Division THREE, embarked in the U.S.S. BOXER and the U.S.S. BON HOMME RICHARD, during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 26 March to 28 November 1951. A capable and inspiring executive, Captain Rodee discharged his responsibilities with a high degree of skill and resourcefulness and was eminently successful in solving the various problems confronting the command in connection with the execution of coordinated combat air operations against the enemy. His outstanding professional ability, sound judgment and zealous devotion to duty throughout this period were contributing factors in the success achieved by his division and reflect great credit upon Captain Rodee and the United States Naval Service. (Captain Rodee is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Walter Fred Rodee (NSN: 0-60256), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving as Chief of Staff and Aide to Commander Carrier Division THREE embarked in the U.S.S. VALLEY FORGE during operations against enemy aggressor forces in the Korean Area from 29 June to 19 November 1950. An efficient and resourceful officer, Captain Rodee effectively solved the many complex problems attending the transition from peacetime cruising to the increased activities of combat operations and, by his skillful planning and unlimited industry, permitted his command to set an outstanding record of achievement. By his professional ability and persistent effort, he contributed directly to the success of the operations. His inspiring leadership and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Rodee is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)