The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel Harold Ward Slacum, United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as the Commanding Officer of the 26th Marine Amphibious Unit from October 1984 to July 1985 and as Assistant Chief of Staff, G-3 and G-4, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing, Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, from July 1985 through July 1987. As Commanding Officer, Colonel Slacum participated in real world contingency planning with Joint Special Operations Forces while deployed in the Caribbean Theater. His professional acumen, initiative, and keen insight resulted in a viable contingency plan approved by the highest level of national command authority in support of the Nation’s strategic objectives. In consonance with the contingency planning, Colonel Slacum produced Marine Amphibious Unit Special Operations Capable Aviation Combat Element training programs. He directed the introduction of the Aviation Logistics Support Ship and initiated a program to ensure combat readiness by skillful management of the 2d Marine Aircraft Wing assets in support of worldwide operations. By his adroit leadership, consummate judgment, and inspiring devotion to duty, Colonel Slacum reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.