The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Major John R. Boyd, United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while assigned to the Deputy for Effectiveness Test, Air Proving Ground Center, Elgin Air Force Base, Florida, from 15 November 1963 to 30 June 1966. During this period, Major Boyd developed the Energy Maneuverability concept of quantitatively measuring air vehicle performance in terms of total energy available and its relation to the operational maneuverability and efficiency of the vehicle. Energy Maneuverability has gained wide acceptance and is extensively employed throughout the Air Force. Through his own initiative and efforts, Major Boyd has made a significant contribution in the field of aeronautics. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Major Boyd reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.


