The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander Robert H. Gibbs, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. WAINWRIGHT during the Sicilian campaign in July 1943. Commander Gibbs fought his ship gallantly in support of troops and amphibious operations and while escorting Allied convoys. Under his direction, equipment impaired by near-miss bombs was restored. He also led his command in amphibious landings behind the enemy lines.