The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain James George Atkins (NSN: 0-34565), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TUSCALOOSA (CA-37), during operations supporting the landings on and occupation of Iwo Jima from 16 February to 7 March 1945, and Okinawa from 25 March to 1 May 1945. During these two operations he distinguished himself by his courage and skill in maneuvering his ship within close range of threatening enemy shore batteries and delivering point-blank battery fire, thereby destroying enemy installations which otherwise would have endangered the success of our troops in the assault landings and subsequent capture of the islands. His conduct and devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Atkins is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)