The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Commander Charles F. Barber (NSN: 0-82249), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Flag Secretary and Aide to Commander FIFTH Fleet from August 1943 to November 1945. During this period in which FIFTH Fleet forces extended United States control of the sea and air across the Central Pacific to the shores of Japan, he participated in the amphibious operations to capture and occupy positions in the Gilbert, Marshall, and Mariana Islands and at Iwo Jima and Okinawa, in the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, in carrier raids on Truk, Palau, Tokyo, Kyushu and the Inland Sea area, and in the occupation of Japan. Lieutenant Commander Barber demonstrated exceptional ability and diligence, took a leading part in the development and improvement of means of maintaining the efficiency of fleet administration in the combat area. He assisted in the preparation of FIFTH Fleet plans and supervised their production and distribution to the Fleet. His intelligence, sound judgment, and mastery of the complexities of his field were of great value to the Commander FIFTH Fleet and contributed to the success of these operations against the enemy. His outstanding performance of duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.