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.

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.