The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Rear Admiral Jesse Bartlett Oldendorf (NSN: 0-7230), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States during the assault and occupation of enemy-held Roi and Namur Islands, Kwajalein Atoll, and Eniwetok Atoll of the Marshall Islands. He commanded the fire support group which bombarded enemy-held islands during the assault phases in both operations. In constricted waters he effectively maneuvered the ships of his group close to known shoals, and delivered supporting gunfire which reduced to a minimum the enemy opposition to the assault of our forces. His personal leadership, and smart handling of his ships, combined with a thorough knowledge of amphibious fire support problems, contributed in a large measure to the successful capture of Roi and Namur Islands and Eniwetok Atoll. His conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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 Vice Admiral Jesse Bartlett Oldendorf (NSN: 0-7230), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander of the Fire Support Group in the assault on the strongly defended Japanese-held islands of Peleliu and Angarur from 12 September to 30 September 1944. The Fire Support Group was entrusted the mission of directing mine sweeping, underwater demolition, and shore bombardment preparatory to the assault. All of these missions were executed under continuous threat of, and often under, actual enemy fire. By rendering close range support of the minesweeping and underwater demolition unit Admiral Oldendorf made possible the accomplishment of these hazardous missions without loss. Under his direction, the shore bombardment, which was he heaviest in the Pacific up to the time, was exceptionally accurate, and was devastating to enemy shore defenses. Admiral Oldendorf’s personal courage, his intelligent direction of his forces, and his inspiring leadership made a notable contribution to the success of an operation of great importance to our offensive against the enemy of this theater. His performance of duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.