The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain John P. W. Vest, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as commander of a task group in the Atlantic Fleet from November 1943 to November 1944. Captain Vest directed the operations of his command with vigor and determination, making it possible for his fighting forces to sink a notable number of German submarines.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Captain John P. W. Vest, United States Navy, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Director of Aviation Training, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, from 19 December 1944 to 15 October 1945.