The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Commander Willis P. Beal, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander LCI(L) Group THIRTY-THREE, Flotilla ELEVEN during the invasion of the coast of Normandy, France, in June 1944. When the LCM’s which were to off load assault troops onto the beaches did not arrive on time, Lieutenant Commander Beal directed his LCI(L) Group in successfully disembarking troops without the use of landing boats as originally planned, despite beach obstacles and heavy enemy fire. Ships wherries and swimmers were used to assist and rescue foundering troops when craft were unable to beach due to a treacherous tide and the beach gradient. The safe landing of these troops was a tribute to the skill and courage and splendid leadership of Lieutenant Commander Beal. His conduct throughout the operation was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Commander Beal is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)