The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit (Navy Award) to Major General Allison J. Barnett (ASN: 0-5364), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving as Chief of Staff to the Commanding General, United States Army Air Forces in the South Pacific Area from 22 September 1943 to 5 June 1944. During this period, Major General Barnett worked closely and effectively with the Commander South Pacific Area and South Pacific Force and with the South Pacific Joint Staff in the conception and successful execution of the many offensive operations carried out in the Solomon Islands and Bismarck Archipelago areas. His efficient coordination of the activities of the Army with those of the Navy and Marine Corps contributed greatly to the ability of our forces to exert their greatest strength against the enemy and administer a series of crushing defeats. His initiative, forceful leadership, and broad understanding of combined operations were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Military Service.