The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Colonel Francis H. Brink (MCSN: 0-3975), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as commander of an assault landing team in the capture of Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, on 1 to 2 February 1944. On the morning of 1 February, there were available only about sixty percent of the landing craft required for his assault units; this necessitated major changes in the plans and organization for the landing. Absorbing a company sent to support his landing team, he quickly and skillfully reorganized his unit on the line of departure. Shortly after he landed, three terrific explosions of ammunition storehouses killed and wounded a number of men in the landing team and created great confusion. He, although painfully wounded himself, worked tirelessly to restore order and push the attack vigorously. Under his leadership, his landing team secured its first objective promptly, and subsequently attacked relentlessly, distinguishing the unit in its first engagement by its vigorous action and will to close with the enemy. His skillful and inspiring leadership was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Colonel Brink is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)