The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Colonel Wilburt S. Brown (MCSN: 0-3960), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while commanding a Marine artillery regiment on Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands during the period 1 April to 22 June 1945. Colonel Brown displayed exceptional skill, clearly demonstrating the efficient training he had given his regiment prior to the landing. When the Army forces in the southern part of the island required additional fire support, he displayed his battalions expeditiously rendering early and effective fire support. When his parent division was committed in the southern zone he coordinated all supporting fires including naval gunfire and air strikes with consummate skill. For a period of eighty-three days his regiment maintained constant fire support for the assault elements under the most adverse weather conditions despite exceedingly difficult terrain and intense enemy counter-battery fires. His effective and inspiring leadership was responsible in a large measure for the surmounting of all difficulties and his determination and professional skill were highly instrumental in assuring the success of the operation. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Colonel Brown is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit (Army Award) to Colonel Wilburt S. Brown (MCSN: 0-3960), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in China during the period 4 October 1945 to 10 November 1945.