The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Rear Admiral Alva D. Bernhard, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States during the Central Pacific Campaign, as Atoll Commander, Kwajalein Atoll, from 31 January 1944 to 1 October 1944, and as Commander, Marshall Islands Sub-Area from 1 May 1944 to 1 October 1944. In the occupation, organization, and development of the defenses and faculties of the Marshalls bases, his excellent leadership, sound judgment, and energetic thoroughness were largely responsible for the success of the program. He planned and executed the successful neutralization and bringing under United States control of twenty-two outlying enemy-held atolls and islands in the Marshalls Group, efficiently utilizing a moderate force to complete the operations with dispatch. He performed aircraft type command functions for all naval units in the Marshalls and Gilberts, and after their occupation, the Mariana Islands from 1 May 1944 onward, including assignment of personnel and control and distribution of aircraft operations in the Central Pacific. His outstanding service and conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Rear Admiral Bernhard is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)