Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Colonel

    Action Date:

    October 1984 – July 1987

    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.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Colonel

    Action Date:

    August 1987 – July 1988

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of 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 Head, Aviation Safety and Analysis Branch, Department of Aviation, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps from August 1987 through July 1988. Extremely competent and imaginative, Colonel Slacum distinguished himself as principal safety advisor to the Deputy Chief of Staff or Aviation. A consummate manager, he was responsible for and directly supervised numerous safety-related initiatives benefiting the entire spectrum of Marine aviation. He designed a computer-assisted system to facilitate mishap analysis and initiated many equipment, training, and operating improvements that enhance the safety and effectiveness of the operating forces. Through his demonstrate3d extensive knowledge of Marine Corps amphibious doctrine and vast operational experience, he made many positive contributions which significantly improved the U.S. Marine Corps as a force in readiness. By his distinguished performance, perseverance, and total devotion to duty, Colonel Slacum reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.