The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Claude H. Bennett, Jr., United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Technical Administrative Officer of the Bureau of Ordnance, navy Department, Washington, D.C. since 1 February 1943. Captain Bennett distinguished himself in the performance of outstanding services in connection with the research and development of under-water ordnance. In large measure through his efforts, new types of torpedoes, mines and special weapons were developed and placed in service, thereby greatly increasing the combat effectiveness of submarines, surface vessels and aircraft using these new and improved weapons. The service use of these new weapons was a large factor in the destruction of the Japanese Navy and Merchant Fleet and in the economic strangulation of Japan. His initiative, technical ability and aggressive spirit were instrumental in evolving and executing a carefully planned research and development program for underwater ordnance. By his keen administrative ability, aggressive spirit, and singleness of purpose, he made available for urgent operational requirements a wide variety of radically new and improved weapons which proved extremely effective. His brilliant professional skill and determined devotion to duty were outstanding and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.