The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Commander Preston Decker Allen (NSN: 0-27750), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Communications Officer on the Staff of the Commander Aircraft, SEVENTH Fleet from October 1944 to August 1945. Commander Allen displayed outstanding administrative ability, leadership, and technical knowledge in installing, operating, maintaining and coordinating the communications facilities within this command. His duties were performed during a period which encompassed the invasion and liberation of the Philippines, and which involved great expansion and intensification of the operational activities. His services contributed greatly to the eminent success of operations in the Southwest Pacific Area and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commander Allen is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)