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 Donald Bradford Beary (NSN: 0-7569), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander of the Logistic Support Group for the THIRD Fleet from 28 May to 19 September 1945. During this period of sustained strikes against Japan and an extended period at sea, his group furnished ammunition, fuel and supplies to fast carrier task groups operating off the Coast of Japan and by skillful planning and precise evaluation of the needs of the Fleet the necessary logistic support was supplied promptly and in sufficient quantities to meet the operational schedule of the assaults upon the enemy. When the mission of the THIRD Fleet changed to that of preparation for the initial landings and the occupation of Japan, he quickly revised the plans and schedules to meet the new situation. His outstanding knowledge and keen appreciation of the many problems involved enabled him to contribute materially to the final phase of the war against Japan. His initiative, professional skill and determination to supply a maximum of logistic support in a minimum of time, under difficult and trying conditions, was of inestimable value to Commander THIRED Fleet and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Rear Admiral Beary is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)