The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Commander Raymond Henry Bass (NSN: 0-70221), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PLUNGER (SS-179), during the NINTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy-controlled waters. During the period of 14 November 1943 to 13 December 1943, the PLUNGER was engaged in reconnaissance, and in search and rescue operations for aviators whose planes were shot down in attack on Mille Atoll. Although in constant and continuous danger from enemy aircraft attacks, he remained on the surface to carry out the search, diving only when immediate attack threatened his vessel. On 22 November 1943, while making a difficult approach in extremely rough seas to rescue a downed aviator, a Zero came out of the rain squall in a fast shallow dive and strafed the PLUNGER before the bridge could be cleared. As a result of this strafing, one officer and five enlisted men were wounded by enemy machine gun fire. Only minor damage was done to his vessel. His conduct and heroic efforts throughout this war patrol were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commander Bass 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 Commander Raymond Henry Bass (NSN: 0-70221), 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 Submarine during a war patrol of that vessel. With great skill and thoroughness, a very important special mission was successfully accomplished. In addition, a brilliantly executed torpedo attack resulted in the sinking of an enemy vessel of approximately 600 tons. He intelligently evaded all enemy countermeasures and brought his vessel back to port safely. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commander Bass is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)