The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Captain James Fife, Jr., United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States, as Chief of Staff, Submarines, Asiatic Fleet, while that force was operating against enemy Japanese in defense of the Philippine Islands and the Netherlands East Indies. Demonstrating exceptional initiative and capability in coordinating the extensive operations of this submarine force, Captain Fife, in the face of frequent attacks, rendered valuable assistance in a successful retiring campaign against the enemy under conditions which required the erection of base and headquarters facilities in areas where there were little or no provisions for such activities.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Rear Admiral James Fife, Jr., United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commander Submarines SEVENTH Fleet and Commander Naval Forces, Western Australia, from 30 December 1944 to 1 September 1945. Admiral Fife planned and coordinated Dutch and Australian submarine units with those of his own forces to press home vigorous, unrelenting attacks against the enemy during a period of difficult operations in restricted areas of the Philippine Islands and Borneo. Under his direction his command established a brilliant combat record as well as carrying on an effective blockade, life-saving rescue patrols, urgent supply missions and daring landing parties. Admiral Fife voluntarily participated in a devastating offensive strike carried out by one of his submarines in April 1945, obtaining valuable first hand information on various submarine problems.