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 Captain (Chaplain’s Corps), [then First Lieutenant] Emmitt T. Carroll (ASN: 0-471115), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services while serving as a Chaplain in the 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, from 20 July to 5 August 1943, when his bravery, vigorous physical stamina and spiritual strength were conspicuously present in the face of difficulty and disheartening conditions on New Georgia. So that every man killed in action could be buried with appropriate services, he repeatedly crawled forward under fire, sometimes to within 25 yards of enemy pillboxes, to remove the dead and wounded. He usually carried a heavy pack from which he distributed such articles as cigarettes and writing paper to weary troops. To Chaplain Carroll goes much of the credit for a sustained spirit which hastened the fulfillment of a courageous combat mission. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Captain Carroll and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army.