The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Major (Infantry) Mitsuyoshi Fukuda (ASN: 0-372977), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States with Headquarters, 100th Infantry Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, in Italy and France from 22 September 1943 to 7 July 1945. Major Fukuda’s battle record is marked by a series of promotions from First Lieutenant and platoon leader on 22 September 1943 to his present position of Major and Commanding Officer of the 100th Battalion. During this period he participated in the crossings of the Volturno River and the Rapido River and in the battles around Colli, Alife, Cassino, Anzio, Rome, Cecina, Southern France, and in the campaign along the western slopes of the Apennine Mountains in Northern Italy. Because of his emphasis on thorough training and high morale, his command was highly skilled and well coordinated, and its fighting record marked by courage and daring initiative. Major Fukuda typifies the highest type of leadership and built up an impressive record for himself and for the units he commanded. His conduct and actions were exemplary and reflects the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.