The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel William E. Antley, Jr. (MCSN: 0-15096), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as the Assistant Chief of Staff, G-1 of the Marine Corps Schools and, subsequently, the Marine Corps Development and Education Command, Quantico, Virginia from 20 July 1966 to 23 May 1968 and as Chief of Staff, Marine Corps Base, Quantico, Virginia, from 24 May 1968 to September 1, 1969. Initially assigned as the Assistant Chief of Staff, G-1, Colonel Antley performed his enumerable, demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Displaying exceptional leadership and sound judgment in administrative and personnel matters, he skillfully originated and supervised countless programs and services required in achieving a smooth transition during the first phases of reorganization of the former Marine Corps Schools into the Marine Corps Development and Educational Command. As the Chief of Staff, Marine Corps Base, Colonel Antley’s careful attention to duty, professional competence and ability to isolate and resolve problems attendant to the support mission of Marine Corps Base were instrumental in maintaining the transition from the former Marine Corps Schools. Colonel Antley constantly displayed his ability as an accomplished staff officer, as he brought to his duties outstanding military discernment, exceptional organizational ability and resourcefulness which contributed significantly to the mission of the Marine Corps Development and Education Command. His tireless pursuit of support excellence created an environment of unprecedented productivity during his tenure. By his outstanding leadership, extraordinary devotion to duty and inspiring personal example throughout, Colonel Antley rendered distinguished service to his country and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.