The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel Robert David Sponeybarger (AFSN: FV-3135079/13769447), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander and Professor of Aerospace Studies, Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps Detachment 370, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, from 15 August 1985 to 31 August 1988. In this important assignment, the outstanding professional leadership and superb managerial skill of Colonel Sponeybarger was directly responsible for the overall improvement of recruiting, facilities and a positive military image in the community. His community involvement and excellent working relations withy members of the university contributed significantly to the success of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps mission at the University of Massachusetts. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Sponeybarger culminate a distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.