The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Legion of Merit (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel [then Major] Zedford W. Burriss (MCSN: 0-5614), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving as Commanding Officer of the heavy anti-aircraft groups of a Marine Defense Battalion from 1 November to 15 July 1943. Lieutenant Colonel Burriss organized and developed this heavy anti-aircraft artillery group into a highly efficient combat organization in the relatively short period of two months prior to its initial commitment in combat. Landing with the battalion in the occupation of the Russell Islands, February 1943, he directed and accomplished installation of the heavy anti-aircraft group in a minimum of time. Through his ingenuity and tireless energy many obstacles of terrain and lack of adequate equipment were overcome and his organization was prepared to function against the enemy at all times as required. He planned and installed a fire direction system for the group which, in comparison to other shore based anti-aircraft units, was largely responsible for a maximum of destruction of enemy aircraft operating against friendly installations in the Russell islands, Solomon Group, during the period February to July 1943. By his determination and high professional skill, he gave encouragement to the men of his command and was an inspiration to them at all times. By his actions he contributed materially to the success of the battalion and to the accomplishment of his assigned mission. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.