The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain George W. Ashford (NSN: 0-62670), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Chief of Staff to Commander Services Squadron THREE in support of combat operations against enemy North Korean and Chinese Communist Forces in the Korean Theater from 14 March 1953 to 27 July 1953. Captain Ashford consistently demonstrated outstanding ability and judgment in solving the many problems of rendering effective mobile logistic support to the SEVENTH Fleet. His comprehension of logistics and his vigorous and untiring efforts, at times when confronted with intense operations demanding sound decision, assured the successful replenishment of combat units by this Task Force despite the difficulties imposed by changing conditions. During the period of maximum effort when replenishment operations were radically increased, his coordination of multiple staff functions contributed immeasurably to enabling the combat units of the SEVENTH Fleet to launch record offensives against the enemy, His constant devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Ashford is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)