The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander Kenneth D. Ringle, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Chief of Staff and Operations Officer of a task force in Kula Gulf, 5 to 13 July 1943. Commander Ringle was largely responsible for the success of these daring engagements. His acute perception of the rapidly changing situations and well-considered advice during night actions were of material assistance to the task force commander.