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 Technician Fourth Grade Clifford Thordson, United States Army Air Forces, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as a welder and mechanic, 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment, from 5 June 1943 to 5 June 1944. Technician Fourth Grade Thordson displayed skill, great technical knowledge and unmitigating effort in the development of an automatic firing device for the carbine. After the perfection of his attachment, he worked night and day installing it on the carbines of his regiment. His work increased materially the fire power and combat effectiveness of his regiment. His devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Army.