The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Joseph V. Amendolara (NSN: 161162), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Naval Gunfire Liaison Officer attached to the Commanding General, 29th Division Artillery during the assault on the coast of Normandy, France, and subsequent advance inland, 6 June through 30 June 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Amendolara was largely responsible for the organizing, training and equipping of the Shore Fire Control Parties of the 29th United States Infantry Division. During the assault he was charged with their overall direction, and was successful in effecting the reorganization at a time when enemy gunfire had caused severe casualties to equipment and personnel. When the LST on which he was embarked was prevented from beaching by hostile gunfire, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Amendolara commandeered an LCVP and made his way ashore. Working under enemy fire and against heavy odds, he succeeded in reorganizing the Shore Fire Control Parties and restoring the designated arrangements, thereby making possible the directing of naval gunfire and the furnishing of much needed fire support to the troops during their occupation of the beachhead. The able leadership, devotion to duty and initiative displayed at all times by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Amendolara reflect great credit on himself and the United States Naval Service.