The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Rear Admiral Daniel Edward Barbey (NSN: 0-7930), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility as Commander of the Amphibious Forces of the SEVENTH Fleet from 8 January 1943 to 12 May 1944. Skillfully building and developing an organization from men and material untried in battle, Rear Admiral Barbey succeeded in bringing the forces under his command to the high state of combat readiness within a few months which enabled them to enter upon the New Guinea operation at the peak of their efficiency. Working in closest cooperation with associated Army Commanders and ably planning for determined aggression, he aided essentially in overcoming Japanese resistance during numerous landing operations and rendered invaluable support for forces until they were firmly established in various strategic positions in this vital area. An inspiring and forceful leader, Rear Admiral Barbey contributed immeasurably to the success of the campaigns in New Britain, New Guinea and the Admiralties and his brilliant administration of exacting responsibilities throughout this period reflects the highest credit upon the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Vice Admiral Daniel Edward Barbey (NSN: 0-7930), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility as Commander of the Amphibious Forces of the SEVENTH Fleet, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Southwest Pacific Area from 2 July 1944 to 1 February 1945. Initiating a series of ably executed operations, Vice Admiral Barbey and the intrepid forces under his command effected successful surprise landings at Noemfoor on 2 July, at Sansapor on 30 July, and at Moretai on 15 September 1944, thereby establishing Southwest Pacific Air Forces within effective striking distance of the Philippines. As Commander of the Northern Attack Force at Leyte on 20 October, he participated with distinction in the highly successful operation which gained lodgment for our forces in the Philippine Islands and, as Commander of the Northern Attack Force at Lingayen Gulf on 9 January 1945, he again shared equally with the Commander Southern Attack Force the credit for the brilliant amphibious operation which finally assured the re-conquest of Luzon and the Philippine Archipelago. By his inspiring leadership and outstanding performance of duty in the planning and execution of these vital operations, Vice Admiral Barbey upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.