The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Commodore [then Captain] John Philip Womble, Jr. (NSN: 0-56811), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander Anti-Submarine Screen of Task Group THIRTY-EIGHT POINT TWO, during operations against enemy Japanese forces off the coasts of Luzon, Formosa and China, from 15 October 1944 to 25 January 1945. Undaunted by relentless enemy air attacks and adverse weather conditions, Commodore Womble skillfully directed the Task Group’s screening vessels through restricted and typhoon-swept waters to provide complete protection for the Group at all times and to contribute, in large measure, to the heavy destruction inflicted on enemy aircraft by the destroyers. His leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commodore Womble 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 with Combat “V” to Commodore [then Captain] John Philip Womble, Jr. (NSN: 0-56811), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander of a Destroyer Screen, attached to Task Group FIFTY-EIGHT POINT TWO during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific War Area from 10 February to 24 March 1945. Serving with distinction in an assignment of vital importance, Commodore Womble provided complete protection to the heavy ships of the group against hostile submarines and contributed materially to the close defense against enemy aircraft. By his courage, professional skill and devotion to duty under the difficult conditions attending operations deep in enemy areas and under protracted hostile air attacks, Commodore Womble upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commodore Womble is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Commodore John Philip Womble, Jr. (NSN: 0-56811), United States Navy, was awarded a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Screen Commander, fast carrier task groups, from 18 April to 28 May 1945.