The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain (MSC) James M. Cooper, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of U.S. Naval Hospital, Naples, Italy and it’s satellite facilities from February 1991 to March 1993. Captain Cooper consistently performed his demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He maintained the highest possible state of quality medical care and readiness. This accomplishment was most significant because of immense manpower shortages and decaying facilities. Through his unfaltering support, guidance and astute use of available resources, all essential programs are at peak readiness. Medical support to the Sixth Fleet meets and exceeds expectations, Naval Reserve personnel training is at an all time high and all programs of quality care are deserving of the highest praise and effectiveness. Patient care has remained his guidon and is carried high and with pride. Embracing Total Quality Leadership, his command displayed pride, dignity, and great accomplishment. Captain Cooper’s astute accomplishments, superb leadership, and total devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.