The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Vice Admiral Louis E. Denfeld, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Assistant Chief of Naval Personnel from 2 January 1942 to 29 March 1945. Vice Admiral Denfeld undertook an exacting assignment in advancing the difficult and complex program of rapid expansion in personnel necessary to the manning of ships and shore bases in wide-spread areas of operations. He rendered inestimable service in the initiation, coordination and execution of plans for the various phases of procurement, training and distribution of personnel. His splendid leadership and devotion to duty were essential factors in the successful functioning of our tremendous Navy.