The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Randal Euesta Dees, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PENSACOLA (CA-24), during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Marshall Islands Campaign, from 23 January to 17 March 1944. A superb seaman, directing his command with courageous and inspiring leadership, Captain Dees effectively participated in several bombardments of Wotje Island, Wotje Atoll, during January and February, and of Taroa Island, Maleslap Atoll, on 30 and 31 January 1944. As the Commander of a Task Group on independent duty during a portion of this period, Captain Dees led his command boldly and with great tactical skill and, by his gallant devotion to duty, contributed to the successful fulfillment of these hazardous missions.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Silver Star
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Legion of Merit
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Silver Star
Service:
United States NavyRank:
CaptainDivision:
U.S.S. Pensacola (CA-24)Action Date:
November 18 – 26, 1943
Pacific Fleet Board of Awards: Serial 50 (May 14, 1944)The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Randal Euesta Dees, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PENSACOLA (CA-24), during the occupation of enemy Japanese-held Gilbert Islands from 18 to 26 November 1943. Valiantly maintaining position in the Task Group within easy bombing range of Japanese bases for a period of eight days, Captain Dees directed his command in the vigorous bombardment of hostile shore installations at Betio Island and, although under fire from shore batteries and twice subjected to severe aerial torpedo attack, brought the PENSACOLA through undamaged. By his forceful leadership and aggressive fighting spirit, Captain Dees contributed essentially to the sturdy defense of the entire Task Group and to the success of a vital mission. His courageous and inspiring conduct under fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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Legion of Merit
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Commodore Randal Euesta Dees, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service as Naval Personnel Officer, United States Pacific Fleet, from June 1944 to September 1945. He displayed a high degree of initiative and professional skill in matters pertaining to the procurement and distribution of all enlisted and officer personnel. At a time when the personnel demands very often exceeded the supply he organized and administered his rapidly expanding department to fulfill a maximum of personnel requirements for ships and units of the Pacific Fleet. In addition, he provided welfare and recreational facilities for the entire Pacific Ocean Area. His judgment and industry were outstanding and his devotion to duty was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.