The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Commander William W. Ayres (NSN: 0-81796), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving as the Commanding Officer of the Fifth Medical Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, prior to and during the seizure of enemy held Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 26 March 1945. Lieutenant Commander Ayres assumed command of the medical battalion upon its activation and with expert professional and administrative ability supervised and directed its organization and training in such an outstanding manner that it developed into a well coordinated, highly technical medical organization capable of functioning under the most adverse field conditions. Landing on Iwo Jima on 20 February he, without regard for his own safety, and with untiring devotion to duty, visited the fire-swept beaches and heavily shelled forward areas and coordinated the evacuation and care of the wounded by the elements of his battalion. Under his inspiring leadership, expert organizational and professional ability the Division Hospital was established and operated in spite of enemy activity, poor sanitary conditions, and difficult terrain. It effective administered to three thousand six hundred and ninety-three casualties. His exceptionally meritorious conduct, broad technical knowledge, expert administrative ability, resolute courage, and untiring devotion to duty were a distinct aid to the successful conduct of the operation, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Commander Ayres is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)