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 Rear Admiral Robert Melville Griffin (NSN: 0-7606), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commandant of the THIRTEENTH Naval District from 23 November 1944 to 31 August 1945. During this vital period his capable administration and sound judgment resulted in the attainment of a high level of operating efficiency. Accomplished through the exercise of outstanding energy and leadership in the best traditions of the Naval Service, his achievement contributed materially to a successful prosecution of the war.