The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander John Raymond Leeds (NSN: 0-71652), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as a Member of the Staff of the Commander SEVENTH Amphibious Force operating against enemy Japanese forces in the Southwest Pacific Area from January 1943 to January 1945. Rendering invaluable service as Assistant Chief of Staff, Commander Leeds ably participated in the planning and execution of all the major amphibian operations extending from southeastern New Guinea through the Bismarck Archipelago and Molucca Islands to the Philippines. A superb seaman and skilled tactician, Commander Leeds was directly instrumental in effecting the splendid coordination of various units involved and the resultant success of these amphibious invasions vital to our relentless and sustained drive against the Japanese.
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Awards Received
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Silver Star
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Silver Star
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander John Raymond Leeds (NSN: 0-71652), United States Navy, for heroism in action against the enemy during an amphibious landing on Kakde Island on 17 May 1944. Shortly after the assault waves landed he went to the beach to expedite the unloading of ships and to relieve the congestion on the beachhead. Although under enemy fire and in personal danger from explosions because of large quantities of fuel and ammunition lying exposed on the beach, he calmly and efficiently directed the activities of the beach party in rapidly unloading and dispersing equipment so that the landing craft could retreat from the beach promptly. By his coolness under fire and skillful leadership he contributed materially to the success of this amphibious operation. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.