The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain (MC) [then Commander] Oran Ward Chenault, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Medical Officer of the U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), from 5 August 1943 to 5 October 1944. Captain Chenault, with superb leadership and superior executive ability, organized and trained the Medical Department of the BUNKER HILL prior to arrival of the ship in the combat zone. He conducted his duties as Head of that Department during twenty-five strikes against the Japanese enemy fleet and many formidable strongholds including Rabaul, Gilbert Islands, Kavieng, Marshall Islands, Marianas, and Philippine Islands in a courageous and aggressive manner. On 19 June 1944, when the BUNKER HILL was damaged by a near bomb miss resulting in the death of two persons and injury of fifty, he personally directed medical and first aid operations in a most commendable manner. His tireless interest in the well being and welfare of the pilots of the Air Groups contributed to the high state of morale and resulting success of the Air Groups. His professional skill, sound judgment, and tireless performance of duty were contributing factors to the success of the operations of his ship in this critical phase of the war in the Pacific. His outstanding service, exemplary personal conduct in battle and outstanding performance of duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Chenault is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)