The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Admiral (CEC), [then Vice Admiral] Ben Moreell, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. With the country facing a nation-wise oil crisis following a complete work stoppage, Admiral Moreell, as Officer-in-Charge of the Petroleum Facilities of the Navy Department from October 1945 to April 1946, moved promptly to carry out orders calling for the seizure of facilities of 50 major oil refineries and four oil pipe lines. Organizing the Naval Petroleum Plants Offices, he assumed control of all facilities and restored and maintained full production. A brilliant administrator and mediator, he brought about a mutually agreeable settlement of all points of dispute between labor and management before any other officially appointed arbitration board had formulated an effective decision. By his extraordinary leadership and keen foresight, Admiral Moreell secured the release of all seized properties and insured the continuation of supply of vital petroleum products.