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 with Combat “V” to Colonel Boeker C. Batterton (MCSN: 0-4362), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of Marine Aircraft Group TWELVE from the landing at Wonsan, Korea, on 14 October 1950 to the evacuation from Yonpo, Korea, on 15 December 1950. Colonel Batterton demonstrated an outstanding professional ability by discharging his responsibilities wisely and with meticulous attention to the operational requirements imposed upon his organization during the operations in the Wonsan-Yonpo area. He effectively coordinated all squadrons under his command into a smoothly operating team. In the course of these operations he successfully accomplished the movement of his personnel and equipment from Wonsan to Yonpo, then fifteen days later from Yonpo to Japan. These movements were made without loss of personnel or equipment. A capable and inspiring commander, resourceful and persevering in maintaining efficient combat operations, Colonel Batterton was directly instrumental in sustaining the close air support furnished by Marine aviation thereby contributing materially to the success achieved by our forces in Korea. His skilled service and exemplary conduct throughout this period were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Colonel Batterton is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)