The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Commander Leon B. Blair, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from 2 February 1957 to 8 August 1960 on the staff of Commander, U.S. Naval Activities, Port Lyautey, Kenitra, Morocco. Lieutenant Commander Blair distinguished himself by his notable achievements in the field of international and community relations, attaining objectives which have materially enhanced the prestige of the United States. Among his many accomplishments, he gained outstanding recognition for the U.S. forces involved in the massive relief job which he organized and coordinated during the Rharb Valley floods of 1958 and 1960; rendered invaluable assistance following the Agadir earthquake disaster of 1960 by organizing, coordinating, and aiding rescue teams, and acting as liaison officer between the King of Morocco and the American Embassy.