The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Ensign Frank Ammons (NSN: 0-244170), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. LCT 452 during the amphibious assault on the Island of Sicily. When the U.S.S. LCT 452 which was loaded with explosives and highly inflammable material was attacked by an enemy aircraft flying at low altitude on the night of 11 July 1943, Ensign Ammons so coolly and skillfully fought his ship that the attacking plane was destroyed. The able leadership and prompt and decisive action displayed by Ensign Ammons reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.