The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Merrill Kinsell Clementson (NSN: 0-72597), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SNAPPER (SS-185), on the SEVENTH War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters during the period from 26 July 1943 to 17 September 1943. Alert and aggressive as he navigated dangerous seas in search of Japanese shipping, Commander Clementson conducted bold attacks against the enemy and, maintaining a high standard of efficiency throughout this important patrol, succeeded in sinking three vessels totaling over 20,000 tons and in damaging another ship of 5,000 tons. A brilliant and fearless leader, Commander Clementson inspired confidence and maximum effort among the officers and men of his submarine, inflicting heavy losses upon the enemy and bringing his ship to port undamaged despite intensive hostile countermeasures. His skilled tactics, courageous conduct and gallant devotion to duty during a daring undersea offensive reflect great credit upon Commander Clementson, his intrepid command and the United States Naval Service.