The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Major Merrill A. Sweitzer, Jr., 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 operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam from 7 December 1967 to 18 September 1968. During this period, Major Sweitzer performed his myriad, demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Initially assigned as Executive Officer of the First Battalion, Seventh Marines, he exhibited outstanding managerial ability in directing and coordinating the functions of the battalion staff. Participating in numerous major operations, he frequently exposed himself to intense enemy fire in order to encourage his men and personally control ground units and supporting elements. During a temporary absence of the battalion commander in February 1968, Major Sweitzer assumed command of the unit and was directed to conduct a search and destroy operation in the western portion of the battalion’s tactical area of responsibility. Employing his vast knowledge of tactics, he boldly maneuvered his men in heavily jungled terrain for four days while skillfully coordinating his activities with a United States Army tank unit. When the command post came under a heavy volume of enemy mortar fire on the night of 3 March, Major Sweitzer effectively coordinated the fire of various supporting arms with the maneuver of his ground units for over two hours, forcing the enemy to flee. Reassigned as Logistics Officer of the Seventh Marines on 1 May, Major Sweitzer continued to distinguish himself by his outstanding performance of duty. During Operation MAMELUKE THRUST, he worked tirelessly and with meticulous attention to detail while directing a highly responsive logistic effort that was instrumental in the success of the operation. Diligently conducting frequent visits to subordinate battalions, he accurately evaluated and planned for the numerous requirements of his regiment’s widely separated combat bases. His tireless efforts and resolute determination inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his professionalism, superior leadership and unwavering devotion to duty throughout, Major Sweitzer rendered distinguished service to his country and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. (Major Sweitzer is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)