The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Colonel Charles Grafton Cooper (MCSN: 0-50749), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States with the III Marine Amphibious Force in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam from 5 August 1969 to 26 August 1970. Throughout this period, Lieutenant Colonel Cooper performed his demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Initially assigned as Force Staff Secretary, he skillfully supervised and coordinated the myriad activities of the general staff and kept the Chief of Staff informed of all matters affecting the current tactical situation and command relationships. In his association with many high ranking civilians and military officials, he was unfailingly courteous and tactful and displayed a professional maturity which reflected great credit upon the Marine Corps and was instrumental in the superb rapport enjoyed by his command in relations with other military commands. Reassigned as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division on 16 January 1970, Lieutenant Colonel Cooper deployed his Battalion over a wide area and planned and supervised the execution of search and destroy operations, ambushes and patrols which blocked the enemy’s persistent attempts to infiltrate friendly positions. On numerous occasions, he disregarded his own safety as he boldly moved to forward areas to assist his company commanders and ensure the delivery of supporting arms fire on areas known to contain hostile sanctuaries and supply depots. Under his dynamic and courageous leadership, his Battalion inflicted severe casualties on large North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong forces and captured numerous caches of food and munitions. His extraordinary initiative and determination earned the respect and admiration of all who served with him and contributed immeasurably to the accomplishment of his command’s mission. By his leadership, professional acumen and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant Colonel Cooper rendered distinguished service to his country and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Colonel Cooper is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)