The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Captain John Edward Pace (NSN: 0-78715/1100), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving with the Weapons Systems Evaluation Group, Office of the Director of Defense Research and Engineering, Office of the Secretary of Defense from 6 August 1964 to 1 November 1965. During this period Captain Pace made very significant contributions to studies vitally affecting national security. His extensive background of Naval experience, his knowledge of the long range objectives of the Navy and his keen foresight have significantly contributed to the accuracy, thoroughness and objectivity of all studies in which he participated. In his capacity as Chief of Staff to the Senior Navy Member, he has demonstrated a high quality of character, resourcefulness, and unusual ability in planning and organizing the Navy Group to achieve smooth and efficient performance. His broad educational and professional experience coupled with his unusual perceptiveness and keen appreciation of operations research methodology enabled him to contribute greatly to the effectiveness of the Weapons Systems Evaluation Group. The outstanding accomplishments of Captain Pace reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.