The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Ross Palmer Whitemarsh (NSN: 0-16991), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander Service Squadron SIX during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Western Pacific Area from 1 October 1943 to 15 October 1944. Through his sound judgment and resourceful guidance, Captain Whitemarsh directed the vital work of mining and of clearing waters immediately prior to invasions. By his initiative and devotion to duty, he kept the loss of Allied ships at a minimum in the Pacific and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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 Ross Palmer Whitemarsh (NSN: 0-16991), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service as Chief of Staff to the Commander Minecraft, United States Pacific Fleet, from 1 January 1945 through August 1945. His vast fund of experience gained from early and long association with Minecraft in the Pacific Ocean Areas, together with his logical and careful attention to detail and administration, have proved an invaluable and indispensable aid in the organization of this command. By constant attention to the diverse and complex problems of the Minecraft, he has continually worked to instill in the organization the ability to carry out the assigned missions and still maintain the highest possible operating efficiency, and morale. Throughout the various phases of planning, staging, assault, follow up, and completion of the Iwo Jima and Okinawa invasions, his untiring energy, calm and decisive action, as well as foresight and appreciation of the needs of Minecraft, has been conspicuous. His tenacity of purpose in establishing Minecraft bases and havens, mine assembly depots and bases, and many other facilities, consistently overcame obstacles to bring the matters to a successful conclusion. His cool action under fire, and consequent reorganization of the staff after the severe damage to the Flagship by an enemy suicide plane, were outstanding. At all times his actions have been in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.