The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Commander Robert J. Bukley, Jr., United States Naval Reserve, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving as the Commander of Motor Torpedo Boats, SEVENTH Fleet, from June 1943 to August 1944. During this time he worked continuously with Motor Torpedo Boats in the Southwest Pacific and contributed outstandingly to their success in blockading and destroying Japanese shipping in the New Guinea and New Britain areas. In June 1943, he commanded one of the first Motor Torpedo Boat divisions to operate in the Southwest Pacific and in October 1943 he established the Motor Torpedo Boat Base at Kiriwina in the Trobriand Islands. As Operations Officer from October 1943 to April 1944, and as Chief Staff Officer on the Staff of the Commander Motor Torpedo Boat Squadrons, SEVENTH Fleet, from February 1944 to April 1944, he labored untiringly to bring his organization to a high degree of efficiency and combat effectiveness. During this period over 200 enemy barges were destroyed, as well as numerous aircraft and other surface craft. From May 1944 to August 1944 he was Commander, Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron TWELVE and Senior Squadron Commander at the Advanced Motor Torpedo Base, Mios Woendi when Motor Torpedo Boats of his squadron participated in the destruction of ten enemy barges. He took part in many combat patrols and at all times displayed a coolness and exemplary leadership in the face of enemy resistance which was an inspiration to his men. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.