The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Rear Admiral John Downes, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commandant of the NINTH Naval District and Commander of the Great Lakes Naval Training station, during a vitally important period during World War II. Rear Admiral Downes displayed the highest qualities of judgment, leadership and initiative which contributed materially in driving enemy submarines from our coastal waters and to the successful operations of the Fleet.