The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” (Posthumously) to Commander Frank DeVere Latta (NSN: 0-71545), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in the performance of his duties as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. LAGARTO, during that vessel’s first War Patrol, off the Bonin Islands and off Bungo Suido, from 24 January to 20 March 1945. His skill and efficient leadership of a coordinated attack group, consisting of HADDOCK, SENNET, and LAGARTO, resulted in two brilliant gun actions. The first gun attack, at dawn on 12 February, accounted for the sinking of two enemy patrol vessels. Again, on the following day, Commander Latta led his submarines in another gun attack. Lack of ammunition precluded total destruction of two more patrol boats, which were severely damaged. The Commanding Officer once again distinguished himself by sinking a Japanese submarine, on 24 February, in a skillful submerged attack. His conduct throughout this splendid patrol was an inspiration to his officers and men and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commander Latta is authorized the Combat “V”.)