The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel (Infantry) Peter Louis Dal Ponte, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from September 1960 to August 1964. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Dal Ponte and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army.