The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Commander (MC) Gennaro Basilicato (NSN: 0-79863), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving with a Marine Aircraft Group in Korea from 16 November 1951 to 23 May 1952, as Flight Surgeon and Senior Medical Officer. Commander Basilicato, utilizing his skill and leadership to the utmost, accommodated thoroughly the medical needs of Group personnel, other Armed Forces units stationed nearby and Korean Nationals. He stressed in a successful manner the combating of the endemic diseases of Korea. Commander Basilicato organized and trained his medical personnel so thoroughly that the unit established an enviable record for returning patients to duty with minimum delay and kept contagious diseases at a minimum. When one epidemic did develop, Commander Basilicato, relentlessly and with utter disregard for his own well-being, administered aid to the sick until all were returned to duty within eighteen hours. He then continued without rest until the cause of the epidemic was discovered and corrected. His ability as a physician and leader inspired other medical personnel, aroused confidence and improved the morale of the command. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commander Basilicato is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)