The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Commander Walter Gale Ebert (NSN: 0-63429), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States. During the THIRD War Patrol of the U.S.S. SCAMP (SS-277) from 22 June to 6 August 1943, conducted in the heavily patrolled enemy held waters of the Solomons and Bismarck area, Commander Ebert, as Commanding Officer of that Submarine, daringly and adeptly maneuvered his vessel into positions from which to strike the enemy, and aggressively attacked on every occasion, sinking a large enemy submarine and severely damaging a valuable enemy tanker. Further, during a great portion of this patrol, when the SCAMP was employed on a scouting line, he conducted a determined and thorough search for enemy vessels, thereby contributing materially to the success of Allied operations in the Solomon Islands. In addition, despite strong and persistent enemy counter measures, he so skillfully maneuvered his ship as to avoid damage, and returned her safely to port. His actions and conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commander Ebert is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)