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 First Lieutenant (Signal Corps) John J. Kayler (ASN: 0-402021), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services while serving with the 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division in the South Pacific Area from March 1942 to June 1943. As regimental communications officer First Lieutenant Kayler performed continuously outstanding service and accomplished superior results in difficult assignments. At two overseas stations of his organization he installed and supervised extensive communications that would have done credit to an entire division signal company. On one island, where he was charged with full responsibility, he successfully coordinated communications among subordinate units, and originated and maintained a system connecting watch towers, battery positions, beach defenses and other installations around the island’s entire perimeter. In combat operations his leadership and competency were in evidence at all times by the way he maintained communications in flawless fashion. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of First Lieutenant Kayler and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army.