The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] Harvey S. Bennett (NSN: 0-97493), United States Naval Reserve, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Naval Gunfire Liaison Officer during the assault on and occupation of French Morocco from 8 November to 11 November 1942. Due to the splendid leadership of Lieutenant Bennett in training of Naval Gunfire Liaison Officers and Shore Fire Control Parties, they achieved a degree of efficiency that greatly contributed to the success of the operation. During the actual operations Lieutenant Bennett was attached temporarily to the Staff of Commander Northern Group and materially assisted that officer in the planning and execution of naval gunfire at Mehdia. The splendid leadership and professional attainments of Lieutenant Bennett reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.