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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), [then Major] Eleazar Parmly, IV, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Program Executive Officer, Laos, from October 1960 to February 1961. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Parmly and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.