The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain James Mortimer Steele, 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 Salvage Superintendent during operations at Pearl Harbor, Captain Steele skillfully organized personnel and expedited procurement of equipment necessary to the accomplishment of important tasks. His initiative and judgment contributed materially to the success of the operations.

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 Captain James Mortimer Steele, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as War Plans Officer on the staff of CincPac from 31 March 1942 to 9 January 1944. Captain Steele contributed materially to the prosecution of the war during this vitally important period by his high quality of judgment and initiative.