The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain [then Commander] Leo William Nilon (NSN: 0-61470), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commander Destroyer Division TWENTY, in action against enemy forces during the amphibious invasion of Southern France in August 1944. Demonstrating exceptional skill, Captain Nilon directed the ships of his division during the conduct of shore bombardments, screening operations and close-in spotting missions in the initial phase of the assault. Coolly and judiciously stationing his units in the invasion area, he enabled them to provide valuable spotting information to Allied capital ships and cruisers and to open fire at a moment’s notice on targets of opportunity. Braving the constant danger from enemy gunfire and densely laid minefields, he took up a position close to the hostile shore at one extremity of the left flank and, supplying accurate and complete reports on the progress of landing operations, assisted the Task Force Commander in directing extensive fire support operations without endangering friendly troops. By his leadership and devotion to duty, Captain Nilon contributed materially to the early collapse of enemy defenses in the area and to the rapid and secure establishments of the Allied beachhead, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.