The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Major James Patrick McWilliams, Jr. (MCSN: 0-73146), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Operations Officer and Executive Officer of the First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division from 12 February 1969 to 5 February 1970. Major McWilliams assumed the responsibilities of Operations Officer while the Battalion was engaged in Operation DEWEY CANYON. His tactical planning, foresight and exceptional proficiency in the employment and coordination of supporting arms contributed immeasurably to the Battalion’s success in this operation, a success which can be measured by the 650 enemy killed and the largest single seizure of enemy material in Vietnam. From 30 March to 3 May, Major McWilliams displayed his exceptional organizational ability and professional competence in planning for the defense of Con Thien, C-2 perimeter, Cam Lo and Mai Loc, integrating indigenous and U.S. units into a well-trained, rapidly responsive defense. His superior knowledge of Reconnaissance in Force operations greatly enhanced the effectiveness of the Battalion in Operations CAMERON FALLS, APACHE SNOW, and HERKIMER MOUNTAIN. Major McWilliams’ exemplary performance of duty and planning proficiency during Operation UTAH MESA were directly responsible for 85 North Vietnamese Army killed. During early July Major McWilliams was tasked with the many details involved in withdrawing the Battalion from Vietnam and its transfer to Okinawa. Arriving at Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Major McWilliams planned and supervised the transition of the battalion from its Combat Orientation to that of an Amphibious Force in Readiness to garrison. Reassigned Battalion Executive Officer, his talents as an organizer and knowledge of staff procedures were immediately put to the test when BLT 1/9 was activated for deployment as the ground element of Special Landing Force BRAVO. In three weeks, while experiencing a 60 percent turnover in personnel, Major McWilliams molded an inexperienced staff into an efficient organization. Assigned as CQ of Troops aboard U.S.S. VANCOUVER, Major McWilliams, though physically separated from the staff and occupied in other demanding duties, continued to provide guidance and assistance.