The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Brigadier General [then Colonel] Norman W. Gourley (MCSN: 0-25560), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving with Headquarters, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, from 1 September 1969 to 19 August 1970. Throughout this period, Brigadier General Gourley performed his demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Initially assigned as Deputy Assistant Chief of Staff, G-3, he ably supervised and coordinated the myriad activities of his large section and was instrumental in the superb operational readiness of the command’s widely dispersed air and ground units. Working tirelessly, he assisted in coordinating the phased redeployment of Marine elements from the republic of Vietnam to bases in Japan, Okinawa, Hawaii, and California, and formulated sound policies for the continued support of those units still committed to combat operations. In addition, he directed the formulation of vital contingency plans and implemented systems and concepts which expedited the process of structuring and posturing Marine amphibious reserve forces. Despite the constant pressure of his command staff duties, Brigadier General Gourley was always available to assist less experienced action personnel in resolving complex problem areas and played a major role in the professionalism and expertise displayed by junior officers of the G-3 Division. Reassigned as Assistant Chief of Staff, G-4 on 18 June 1970, Brigadier General Gourley continued to distinguish himself by his perceptiveness and extraordinary ability to evaluate operational requirements and initiate proper actions. Under his brilliant guidance, contingency plans for logistic operations at the end of hostilities were formulated and maintained in a current status and transportation plans were effected which ensured the efficient execution of planned KEYSTONE ROBIN deployments. His resolute determination and seemingly unlimited resourcefulness earned the respect and admiration of all who served with him and contributed immeasurably to the accomplishment of the mission of the Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. By his initiative, professional acumen, and indefatigable devotion to duty, Brigadier General Gourley rendered distinguished service to his country and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

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 Brigadier General Norman W. Gourley (MCSN: 0-25560), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Deputy Director for Operations, Operations Directorate, Headquarters, United States European Command, from September 1970 through August 1972. During this period, Brigadier General Gourley was responsible for and directly supervised the operational, exercise, and planning activities in support of United States and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) commitments for the European area of responsibility. In this extremely critical position, he contributed materially to the attainment of United States and NATO objectives in Europe by exercising dynamic leadership, superior professional competence, and sound, perceptive judgment. Brigadier General Gourley’s initiative, diligent supervision, and direct involvement in numerous major projects were key factors in the resolution of numerous complex issues at national and international levels. By his superb performance, he furthered the interests and security of the United States and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.