The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Commander Gus R. Berner, Jr. (NSN: 0-57458), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander LST Group FORTY-FOUR, in action against the enemy in the Southwest Pacific Area, from 1 October 1944 to 1 July 1945. Commander Berner participated in amphibious landing operations at Leyte, Lingayen, Zambales, Visayan, and Negros in the Philippines and at Tarakan in Northwest Borneo. His willingness to assume responsibility and his untiring energy in the performance of his duty contributed materially to the success of these operations. His conduct was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commander Berner is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)