The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pride in presenting the Legion of Merit (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Ferdinand Ora Barger, Jr. (ASN: 0-70262/2028661), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States during the period 10 July 1968 to 4 September 1968, while serving as Psychological Warfare Advisor, Advisory Team 1, United States Army Advisory Group, I Corps Tactical Zone, Republic of Vietnam. During that period, while serving as Psychological Warfare Advisor to Quang Ngai Province, Republic of Vietnam, Colonel Barger demonstrated courage, initiative, and ability far beyond that normally required by the position. By exhibiting professional competence and intense devotion to duty during the long and arduous hours he worked, he set an example that inspired his associates to strive for maximum achievement. He immediately established his effectiveness upon arrival in the province, visiting all districts of the province to spur local leaders to greater, more meaningful activity. Colonel Barger supervised the printing of newspapers, distribution of films, dissemination of leaflets, and production of radio programs, which brought the message of freedom to the Vietnamese citizens of the province. As a deep believer in teamwork and cooperation, he met great success in persuading military personnel and civilians, Americans and Vietnamese, to work harmoniously and effectively. He firmly believed he could not carry out his responsibilities from behind a desk in Quang Nam City; he traveled widely and frequently to remote areas of the province, seeking out the problems and solving them. Lieutenant Colonel Barger’s professional competence and outstanding achievements were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.