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 with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Colonel Charles L. Banks (MCSN: 0-5313), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States prior to and during the amphibious operations at Inchon,, Korea, the attack and liberation of Seoul, Korea, and the continuation of the advance to Wonsan, Korea, from 15 August to 2 November 1950, as Commanding Officer, 1st Service Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, Reinforced, Fleet Marine Force. Lieutenant Colonel Banks assumed command of the battalion, reorganized it on war tables of organization, and in a period of very few weeks led it with eminent success through the amphibious assault operations at Inchon, Korea, and subsequent displacements forward to Seoul, Korea, and Wonsan, Korea. A capable and inspiring leader, Lieutenant Colonel Banks discharged his responsibilities wisely in directing the many and varied activities of his battalion and providing needed supplies and services not only to the Division but, for a considerable portion of the period, the 7th Infantry Division, 187th Airborne Regiment, Korea Marine Corps Regiment, 17th Republic of Korea Regiment, Kimpo Task Force, and others. The supplies of food, fuel, clothing, camp equipment, to the several supported forces was invariably efficient and promptly supplied. Support in the form of bakery, laundry, showers, salvage, maintenance, and repair was rigorously pushed forward to front line units. His professional skill in coordinating this support left nothing to be desired, and contributed materially to the successful completion of the operations. His skilled services and exemplary conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Colonel Banks is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Colonel Charles L. Banks (MCSN: 0-5313), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Assistant Chief of Staff, G-4 in the FIRST Marine Division during combat operations in Korea from 12 January to 25 May 1951. Lieutenant Colonel Banks displayed exceptional ability, great initiative, and a keen perception of operational requirements in the performance of his duties. He personally supervised and capably directed the smooth and efficient functioning of the G-4 section, and he was able at all times, through his skill and foresight to advise the Commanding General as to the extent of logistical support available to any proposed course of tactical action, and to make sound recommendations as to the necessary decisions concerning supply. Lieutenant Colonel Banks’ skilled service and exemplary conduct throughout this period were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Colonel Banks is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)