The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Major Denton Carter, United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving in various capacities with the Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with military operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam from 6 December 1967 to 6 December 1968. Throughout this period, Major Carter performed his demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Initially assigned as the Regimental Logistic Officer, he skillfully planned and coordinated the construction of cantonment facilities at the An Hoa Combat Base and worked tirelessly to provide outstanding logistic support for Operations FOSTER, PITT and WORTH. Reassigned on 4 May 1968 as Executive Officer of the First Battalion, he displayed exceptional administrative ability and sound tactical judgment as he thoroughly reviewed the defensive capabilities of the battalion’s combat base, formulated a comprehensive plan to reorganize the physical defenses and established procedures for the rapid development of reaction forces. While commanding the base during Operation MAMELUKE THRUST, he ably coordinated all the diverse units to create a smoothly functioning outpost and continued to expand patrol activities in conjunction with the employment of supporting arms to deny the enemy freedom of movement within the tactical area of responsibility. On numerous occasions, while organizing and leading reaction forces, his superb leadership and aggressive fighting spirit contributed to the defeat of hostile forces and ensured the security of the DaNang Vital Area while accounting for 167 enemy soldiers confirmed killed and 7 captured. Assuming the duties of Battalion Commander on 12 September, Major Carter introduced a highly effective system of Headquarters and Service Company day patrols which provided relief for rifle companies and, on one occasion, led to the discovery of a valuable cache of enemy 122-mm. rockets. Resuming his position as Battalion Executive Officer on 23 September, he continued to distinguish himself in the superior performance of his duties. Exhibiting outstanding tactical ability, he skillfully planned, coordinated and led a heliborne assault involving Marine, United States Army and Army of the Republic of Vietnam units, completely wresting control of the Phu Son area of Quang Nam Province from the enemy. By his inspiring leadership, superior professionalism and steadfast devotion to duty, Major Carter rendered distinguished service to his country and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. (Major Carter is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)