The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander Joe H. Arnold (NSN: 0-77741), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from 25 June to 28 December 1950, as Commanding Officer of Patrol Squadron FORTY-SEVEN (VP-47). At the time of the initial North Korean assault, VP-47, under the leadership of Commander Arnold, had been relieved, and was in the process of returning to the United States. It was re-called to the Japanese area, and in spite of extremely severe logistical and administrative shortages and difficulties, immediately assumed the major burden of supplying routine anti-submarine patrols, courier flights, and convoy escort coverage in Japanese-Korean waters. In addition, search and rescue services and special anti-submarine patrols for SEVENTH Fleet units refueling in the Yellow Sea were provided upon request. In conjunction with and subsequent to the Inchon landings, anti-mine reconnaissance became a primary mission of the squadron and a seadrome was maintained at Inchon and later at Chihhae with the result that this operation was carried out with constantly increased effectiveness. The long distances flown, the exceptionally great number of flights completed, the high availability maintained, and the record of no operational and personnel incidents sustained by the squadron were due in large part to the skillful direction of its commanding officer. Commander Arnold distinguished himself by his technical and professional knowledge of maximum plane and pilot performance; his effective coordination of the functions assigned his command, and most especially by being largely responsible for the development of the notably successful system of locating, plotting and destroying mines by aerial gunfire. In so doing, he proved himself of inestimable value to Commander Fleet Air, Japan, in carrying out his operational responsibilities. He performed his duties in an intelligent and exemplary manner, and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.