The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain David Selby Cruden, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander, Submarine Squadron SIXTEEN from September 1974 to August 1976. A competent and resourceful leader, Captain Cruden consistently exercised outstanding professional expertise and diligence in planning and directing the operations of the submarines and support ships of Squadron SIXTEEN. His superb managerial ability and perceptive judgment in the conduct of training and maintenance enabled every Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarine assigned to his command to complete successfully all deterrent missions. Displaying unique insight into the future requirements of the Rota, Spain Submarine complex, he guided the planning and development of facilities both ashore and as sea to support projected operations. By his inspiring leadership, ingenuity, and steadfast devotion to duty, Captain Cruden reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.