The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Riley Franklin McConnell, United States Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his duty as Chief of Staff of the Commander in Chief, U.S. Asiatic Fleet, 30 October 1936 to 25 July 1939 while, due to the Sino-Japanese hostilities, extensive military naval and aerial operations were being conducted on the coastal ports, on the rivers and the mainland of China. During these operations the Asiatic Fleet and attached Marine Corps Forces, under most exacting, difficult and hazardous conditions, successfully safe-guarded the lives and interests of American citizens in the Far East. On occasion when the Commander in Chief was forced to be absent from his station, Captain McConnell carried on the administration of the Fleet in an exceptionally efficient and capable manner. By display of excellent judgment, tact and diplomacy he created a most favorable impression with American and foreign officials with whom he came in contact. His exceptional administrative ability, outstanding qualities of leadership, loyal and unselfish services were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.