The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Rear Admiral Leonidas D. Coates, Jr., United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States DURING THE PERIOD June 1961 to June 1964 as Chief of Naval Research. During this period of dynamic evolution of naval ships, aircraft, associated equipment and technology, Rear Admiral Coates has made major contributions to the scientific and engineering achievements of the Office of Naval Research. Exercising outstanding professional skill and resourcefulness, he has insured the maximum scientific and technological advancement of the Navy, and has been responsible for a high order of enthusiasm and morale among personnel in the offices and laboratories under his cognizance. In addition he has insured the most effective utilization of limited resources of men and money.