The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Commander Marston W. Burdick (NSN: 0-73002), United States Naval Reserve, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CROSBY (DD-164) from 20 July 1943 to 7 November 1943. During this period, the ship under Lieutenant Commander Burdick’s command transported and landed troops, equipment, and supplies in our operations against the enemy in New Georgia, Vella Lavella, Treasury, Choiseul, and Bougainville; participated in the bombardment of enemy installations; and performed duty as escort for other vessels engaged in transport and reconnaissance. Despite the defects inherent in the age of his ship, the difficulties of operating and at times making radical maneuvers under fire in unfamiliar and poorly charted waters, and the persistent attacks by enemy planes, surface and undersea vessels, and shore batteries, Lieutenant Commander Burdick by outstanding determination, skill and courage eluded and fought off the dangers to his ship, inflicted damage upon the enemy, and successfully accomplished the missions with which he was entrusted. His conduct under fire has been a constant inspiration to those serving under him. His performance of duty throughout has been in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service; and has contributed materially to the success of our offensive against the enemy in this theater of war.