The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel David Melvin Ridderhof (MCSN: 0-549409), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Head, Physical Security Branch, Logistics Plans Division of the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations from September 1976 through June 1980. Colonel Ridderhof demonstrated superior perception, resourcefulness, and imagination in developing near and long-term improvements in the field of physical security. He also exhibited remarkable skill and dedication as the key Navy planner in the areas of physical security of Navy activities and nuclear weapons. In all endeavors, Colonel Ridderhof excelled and his participation in any venture ensured its success. By his noteworthy achievements, quiet, competent style of leadership, and selfless devotion to duty, Colonel Ridderhof reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.