The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander Gaylord Byron Brown (NSN: 0-79611), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander, Carrier Air Group SEVEN, while serving aboard the U.S.S. BON HOMME RICHARD, during the period 18 June 1952 to 24 December 1952. Commander Brown demonstrated an inspirational and aggressive leadership which resulted in an outstanding performance by the squadrons under his command, thereby causing great damage to enemy installations in North Korea. His thorough understanding of the Naval mission in the Korean Conflict, combined with his sound professional skill, led him to make decisions which contributed immeasurably to the successful air operations against the enemy. He was responsible, through his high personal standards, for the remarkable spirit and morale of the entire air group. His courageous and inspiring leadership and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.




