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 Major General Thomas Eugene Watson, United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious service to the Government of the United States in a duty of great responsibility as Commanding General of the SECOND Marine Division during the assault on and capture of Saipan and Tinian Islands, Marianas Group, from 15 June 1944 to 1 August 1944. Skilled in the complexities of amphibious warfare through his success in previous operations in the Pacific Area, Major General Watson welded his unit into an effective striking force during the preparatory phases of the campaign and, by his expert administrative ability and tireless energy, efficiently coordinated the efforts of his staff and solved numerous difficult problems of logistics and joint action with other naval units. Fearlessly moving ashore with his men during the critical period of the landing operations, he established his headquarters near the Japanese lines and personally directed his troops with brilliant tactical skill and aggressive determination against vigorous opposition successfully routing the enemy and preparing the way for the capture of these strategic islands. Although the division was depleted in numerical strength and physical endurance by twenty-five days of heavy fighting on Saipan, he expeditiously reorganized his forces and attained a high state of combat readiness for the subsequent landing on Tinian. Distinguishing himself by his indomitable fighting spirit and inspiring leadership throughout these hazardous operations, Major General Watson contributed in a large measure to the success of the vital Marianas Campaign and his valiant conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.