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 Rear Admiral [then Captain] William Gosnell Tomlinson (NSN: 0-20435), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander, United States Naval Forces, during training operations in the Azores Area, from January to December 1944. Serving with distinction in an assignment of vital importance, Rear Admiral Tomlinson succeeded in developing and expanding our Naval activities in this area; in instituting, maintaining and furthering friendly relations and effective cooperation with representatives of other governments; and in supporting, supervising and conducting aviation units on extensive and effective anti-submarine operations. In addition, he developed an unsuitable site into a vital seaport, thereby expediting the delivering of materials necessary to our Naval aviation offensive against enemy submarines in this area. His outstanding initiative, leadership and professional skill were contributing factors in the maintenance of American prestige in international diplomacy and in the effective prosecution of our anti-submarine operations in the Atlantic Ocean and reflect the highest credit upon Rear Admiral Tomlinson and the United States Naval Service. (Rear Admiral Tomlinson is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Rear Admiral [then Captain] William Gosnell Tomlinson (NSN: 0-20435), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BELLEAU WOOD (CVL-24) during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Western Pacific War Area from 1 July to 15 August 1945. Demonstrating inspiring leadership and professional ability during active combat operations against enemy surface forces and the main homeland of the Japanese, Rear Admiral Tomlinson maintained the fighting efficiency of his ship at a high level and contributed materially to the infliction of extensive destruction on hostile forces and installations. His courage and devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Rear Admiral Tomlinson is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)