The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Commander Martin C. Burns, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Aerological Officer on the Staff of the Commander, FIFTH Fleet, from 15 October 1943 to 4 July 1945. During this period he participated in the operations to capture and occupy positions in the Gilbert, Marshall and Mariana Islands, and at Iwo Jima and Okinawa; in the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, and in carrier raids on Truk, Palau, Tokyo, and on Kyushu and enemy fleet units in the Inland Sea. Commander Burns advised the Commander FIFTH Fleet on all aerological matters during the planning for and execution of these operations. His ability to apply his aerological observations and technical knowledge was a contributing factor at all times to the success of the operations. His outstanding service and performance of duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commander Burns is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)