(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Commodore (MC), [then Captain] Don S. Knowlton, United States Navy, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Division Surgeon of a Marine Corps Infantry Division on Okinawa from 1 April to 21 June 1945.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander (MC) Don S. Knowlton, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States during World War II. As Executive Officer of the First Medical Battalion during the seizure and occupation of Guadalcanal, he developed a high state of efficiency in medical units, particularly the Division Field Hospital, functioning as the principal evacuation and medical supply center of the division. Under extremely difficult and dangerous conditions he contributed brilliantly to the excellent training of subordinate personnel.