The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Lloyd George Benson (NSN: 0-147904), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. KILTY (DD-137), in heroic action against the enemy in the Southwest Pacific and Philippine waters from 8 April 1944 to 25 February 1945. By his coolness, perseverance and outstanding ability, in spite of frequent enemy aircraft attacks and shore battery fire, Lieutenant Benson caused his ship to deliver prolonged and effective gunfire, resulting in the destruction of enemy aircraft and shore installations. He accomplished this while carrying out his primary mission or landing assault troops on hostile beaches. His outstanding services and conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Benson is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)