The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Colonel Otto E. Bartoe (MCSN: 0-52), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Assistant Chief of Staff, C-4, First Marine Aircraft Wing from 27 August 1944 to 11 July 1945. While acting in this capacity, Lieutenant Colonel Bartoe was responsible for the logistic support of the units of the First Marine Aircraft Wing operating throughout the Southwest Pacific Theater. In spite of the many difficulties encountered, Lieutenant Colonel Bartoe, through his initiative, untiring energy and thorough knowledge of logistics accurately anticipated the material requirements of those units, planned and expeditiously conducted their movements and provided for their unfailing supply. His devotion to duty and conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.