The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Leonard Byner Austin (NSN: 0-10933), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving as Commander Destroyer Division SEVEN from 7 December 1941 to 14 August 1943, and as Commander Destroyer Squadron TWENTY-TWO during March 1943. On 7 December 1941, Captain Austin underwent the air attack at Pearl Harbor. He later took part in offensive carrier task force sweeps in the Pacific, rescuing survivors of the SIMS and NEOSHO on 11 – 12 May 1942. During the period 22 July to 9 August 1943, he saw action in the first landings on Guadalcanal as part of Task Force SIXTY-TWO undergoing several heavy air attacks, directing the bombardment of enemy shore positions and taking an active part in rescue operations following the Battle of Savo Island. As Commander Destroyer Squadron TWENTY-TWO he carried out escort missions in the Pacific. Throughout these early, hazardous months of the Pacific War, Captain Austin’s skill and devotion to duty were outstanding and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Austin is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)