The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Rear Admiral Ralston Smith Holmes (NSN: 0-1377), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commandant of the ELEVENTH Naval District and Task Group Commander of the Western Sea Frontier Forces during the period 22 December 1941 to 31 December 1942. In the execution of this important and exacting assignment during a critical period of expansion, Rear Admiral Holmes displayed the highest qualities of judgment, leadership and initiative which contributed materially to the successful operations of the Fleet.