The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Charles Julian Wheeler, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as commanding officer of a warship in the Central and South Pacific areas from 1 September 1943 to 23 June 1944. Captain Wheeler maintained his ship at the highest point of efficiency at all times and contributed to the combat readiness of his command through numerous engagements and campaigns during this important period.