The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain William H. Benson (NSN: 0-59712), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, Intelligence and Plans for Commander Naval Forces, Far East during the period 20 July 1950 to 15 June 1951. Although handicapped during the early stages of the Korean hostilities by a limited staff, Captain Benson, throughout the period, provided excellent advice and guidance to others, achieved a high degree of coordination among his sections, gave freely of his time and advice to all members of the staff desiring assistance, and discharged his may responsibilities withy exceptional professional skill and resourcefulness thereby contributing materially to the successful accomplishment of the mission of Naval Forces, Far East. He continually demonstrated the highest order of ability, combined with outstanding qualities of perseverance and untiring application. He further indicated a complete understanding of existing administrative and operational problems and advised the Commander Naval Forces, Far East to a degree that reflected great professional knowledge. Captain Benson’s tireless and faithful performance of duty, his resourcefulness, his ability to successfully cope with unexpected problems and his very skillful application of professional knowledge were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.