The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain (MC) Melville J. Aston (NSN: 0-10109), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Senior Medical Officer of the U.S.S. SOLACE (AH-5), a Hospital Ship in the South Pacific area from December 1941 to August 1943. During this period, Captain Aston exhibited exceptional skill and tireless devotion to duty in directing the care, treatment and transportation of large numbers of casualties resulting from the intensive combat activity in the South Pacific. His professional ability and thorough knowledge contributed materially to the saving of many lives and the maintenance of a low mortality rate during the prolonged period in which his ship operated frequently in enemy-infested waters. His untiring efforts and professional skill were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Aston is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)