The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” (Navy Award) to Lieutenant Colonel Ashley A. Blinn (ASN: 0-35322), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving with an Army Artillery Group during operations against the enemy in Korea from 6 September 1952 to 30 April 1953. Serving as Commanding Officer of an Artillery Battalion and Commander of a Corps Artillery Group, Lieutenant Colonel Blinn displayed an outstanding degree of professional competence and leadership in the execution of his duties. While in support of the FIRST Marine Division, he demonstrated exceptional skill in the control and maneuver of the supporting and reinforcing fires of the units under his command. Through his coordination of the group fires with those of the Marine Division the optimum efficient and timely support so urgently needed to combat the strong and determined forces was achieved. Although performing under extremely adverse conditions, he worked long hours in order o more effectively accomplish his assigned missions. Lieutenant Colonel Blinn’s indomitable spirit and inspiring leadership contributed materially to the success achieved by the Marine units and his exemplary conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Colonel Blinn is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)