The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain George Patton Kraker (NSN: 0-56085), 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. MARBLEHEAD (CL-12), and Commander of a Gunfire Support Unit prior to and during the amphibious invasion of Southern France in August 1944. Distinctly successful in achieving a high state of training and combat readiness in his command, Captain Kraker fearlessly directed the conduct of numerous gunfire support missions against the devastating return fire of German coastal positions during actual assault operations and, by his daring and forceful leadership, materially assisted the Allied ground forces in their advance along the coastal areas on the right flank. Captain Kraker’s effective coordination of offensive activities by his units in carrying out patrol and bombardment missions was an important factor in their successful support of Allied operations in Southern France. (Captain Kraker is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

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 Captain George Patton Kraker (NSN: 0-56085), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Chief of Staff to the Commander Forward Area Central Pacific and Commander Marianas from 8 March to 2 September 1945. Demonstrating professional ability and sound judgment during this period of major land, sea and air offensives which led to the ultimate defeat of the Japanese, Captain Kraker contributed materially to the success of this command in defending and developing Caroline and Volcano Islands. His leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.