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 Frederic S. Withington, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander United States Naval Forces, Japan, from April 1958 to April 1961. An inspiring leader and diplomat, Rear Admiral Withington has been eminently successful in implementing the spirit of the People-to-People Program throughout his command, resulting in the strengthening and furtherance of cooperation and friendship between United States naval personnel and the Japanese people.