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 with Combat “V” to Rear Admiral [then Commander] Ellsworth Dudley McEathron (NSN: 0-20394), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander Mine Squadron TEN during operations against enemy Japanese forces at Ormoc, Philippine Islands, from 6 to 8 December 1944; and during the Mindoro Campaign from 18 to 19 December 1944. Skillfully directing his ships, Rear Admiral McEathron led his squadron in sweeping dangerous enemy waters, and planned and directed the laying of buoys to mark channels and reefs off Japanese-held beaches. Under his forceful leadership, the vessels of his squadron repelled many aerial bombing and suicide attacks by hostile planes, destroying three and contributing to the destruction of fourteen others. His aggressiveness, initiative and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Rear Admiral McEathron is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain [then Commander] Ellsworth Dudley McEathron (NSN: 0-20394), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Assistant Minesweeping Officer on the Staff of Commander Minecraft, United States Pacific Fleet, during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific War Area from June to August 1945. Exercising his thorough knowledge of minesweeping procedure, Captain McEathron rendered valuable service to his Command in planning a major minesweeping operation which was completed without loss to our forces from enemy action. With outstanding ability, he planned the tactical operation of large groups of minecraft in the open sea for extended periods and provided for the logistic and engineering support of the vessels while located in enemy waters, far from established bases. By his professional skill and tireless devotion to duty, Captain McEathron contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of the Task Group’s mission, and his gallant conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain McEathron is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)