The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Elmer Paul Abernethy (NSN: 0-28168), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as the Executive Officer of a Transport operating in the Solomon Islands Area during the period from 7 August 1942 to 30 June 1943. Captain Abernethy participated in the initial occupation of Guadalcanal-Tulagi on 7 August 1943, and later made many trips into the forward area to deliver reinforcements to the American garrison on Guadalcanal. His ship carried troops and supplies for the assault on Rendova Island on 30 June 1943. While engaged in these operations, he was subjected to frequent enemy air and submarine attacks. By his skill and determination, he assisted his Commanding Officer in bringing his ship through without damage. On all occasions he demonstrated outstanding courage, skill, determination and devotion to duty. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Abernethy is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)