The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Rear Admiral Arthur William Radford (NSN: 0-9643), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. As the Commander of a Task Group of Task Force THIRTY-EIGHT (TF-38), from 1 July to 2 September 1945, his outstanding ability to organize the air power of the forces under his command was greatly instrumental in the effectiveness of the smashing blows against the enemy’s homeland which led to the defeat and final surrender of Japan. His attacks upon concentrations of naval ships at Yokosuka, Kure and Kobe in coordination with the other groups of the Task Force completed the destruction of the Japanese Navy. His devastating air attacks throughout the four major Japanese islands destroyed the unprecedented number of enemy aircraft. This destruction of the enemy’s major offensive weapon coupled with the severe damage to supporting industries, installations and transportation was a major factor in hastening the enemy’s defeat. His skillful tactical control of the Task Group comprising carriers, battleships, cruisers and destroyers was so effective that their maximum striking power was realized. At the same time his expert use of defensive power prevented any damage to ships under his command. His personal courage, determination, outstanding leadership and organizational ability were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Legion of Merit
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Legion of Merit
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Navy Distinguished Service Medal
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Navy Distinguished Service Medal
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Navy Distinguished Service Medal
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Legion of Merit
Service:
United States NavyRank:
Rear AdmiralAction Date:
April 6, 1944 – October 5, 1944
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 to Rear Admiral Arthur William Radford (NSN: 0-9643), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Assistant Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (Azir) from 6 April 1944 to 5 October 1944. Rear Admiral Radford assisted in the direction of the Aeronautic Organization of the Navy, the readiness and deployment of air units, the planning and preparation of aviation units, and all related logistic factors with extraordinary skill, efficiency, and success during a difficult period of expansion and change. His wisdom of judgment and soundness of counsel in connection with all phases of naval aviation contributed materially to the successful prosecution of the war. By his leadership in this important assignment Rear Admiral Radford rendered valuable service to the Navy and his actions throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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Legion of Merit
Service:
United States NavyRank:
Rear Admiral [then Captain]Action Date:
December 7, 1941 – April 19, 1943
Board Serial 72433 (December 9, 1943)The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Rear Admiral [then Captain] Arthur William Radford (NSN: 0-9643), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Director of Aviation Training, Bureau of Aeronautics, 7 December 1941 to 19 April 1943. Upon our entry into the current war, Rear Admiral Radford immediately inaugurated a program of intensive expansion to include all phases of operational aviation training, and in addition, instigated the establishment of functional training commands to effectuate the plans conceived. Rear Admiral Radford’s sound and decisive judgment in this respect and the maintenance of consistently high standards despite the rapidity of accomplishment were contributing factors in providing the Fleet with skilled pilots to spearhead its offensive drive on the enemy.
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Navy Distinguished Service Medal
Commander 1st Carrier Task Force Pacific: Serial 01101 (July 6, 1945)The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Rear Admiral Arthur William Radford (NSN: 0-9643), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. As Commander of a Fast Carrier Task Group from 10 February 1945 to 29 May 1945, he led his Task Group in attacks on the Tokyo area on 16 – 17 February and on 25 February, in supporting operations at Iwo Jima from 19 to 22 February, in the photo mission on Okinawa on 1 March 1945, in attacks on Kyushu and the Inland Sea area on 18 – 19 March 1945, and in supporting operations at Okinawa from 23 March to 29 May 1945. Rear Admiral Radford at all times demonstrated a marked ability to handle his Task Group skillfully during prolonged operations in the support of amphibious landings. He successfully combated numerous enemy air attacks and inflicted great damage upon enemy aircraft, shipping, and installations. His conduct was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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Navy Distinguished Service Medal
CNO Conference Serial 07P11 (February 15, 1951)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 Admiral Arthur William Radford (NSN: 0-9643), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commander in Chief, Pacific, and Commander in Chief United States Pacific Fleet, during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 26 June 1950 to 1 January 1951. Responsible for maintaining the Pacific Area and Pacific Fleet at a high level of readiness, Admiral Radford quickly and effectively prepared his command for full-scale offensive operations at the inception of the Korean conflict. As a result of his brilliant leadership, professional skill and able administration of Naval operations in the Western Pacific, surface forces were strategically placed to control waters surrounding the target area and to provide coordinated support of land operations designed to aid the Republic of Korea in her fight against domination and oppression. By his courageous devotion to duty, Admiral Radford rendered valuable and distinguished service and contributed greatly to the success of friendly forces engaged in the Korean Campaign, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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Navy Distinguished Service Medal
Service:
United States NavyRank:
AdmiralDivision:
Joint Chiefs of StaffAction Date:
August 15, 1953 – August 15, 1957
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Third Gold Star in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Admiral Arthur William Radford (NSN: 0-9643), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. As Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 15 August 1953 to 15 August 1957, Admiral Radford carried out grave responsibilities of his office in an exemplary manner. Throughout his Chairmanship he exhibited a singular professional knowledge and understanding of the many aspects of national strength, of the international situation, and of the capabilities and requirements of all branches of the Armed Forces. His sound judgments and decisions were of eminent significance, both nationally and internationally. His keen thinking and considered military advice to the President, National Security Council and the Secretary of Defense had great influence on the military posture of our country and of our allies. The integrity, loyalty, modesty, and ability with which Admiral Radford discharged his difficult responsibilities for the security of the United States have been an inspiration to all who have labored with him to improve the defenses of Freedom. By his selfless dedication, he has rendered service of the highest value to the Nation, and has reflected great credit upon himself and our Armed Forces.