The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Rear Admiral Calvin Thornton Durgin, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States while commanding support carrier groups during operations against Iwo Jima, Okinawa, and the islands of Nansei Shoto from 16 February 1945 to 21 June 1945. Admiral Durgin synchronized his supporting units with the other elements of the assault forces to produce maximum striking power. In addition he launched strikes against Sakashima and Amani Gunto and directed his force in supporting the invasions of Kerama Retto, Keise Shima, Okinawa, Ie Shima, Iheya Shima and Aguni Shima. Always on the offensive, the units under his command inflicted heavy damage upon the enemy and aided in maintaining control of the sea and air in the objective areas.