The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Commissioned Warrant Officer [then Master Sergeant] Bruner Brown (MCSN: 0-12111), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as a wire chief in the FIRST Marine Division at Guadalcanal, British Solomon Islands, from 7 August 1942 to 9 December 1942, and at Cape Gloucester, British Solomon Islands from 26 December 1943 to 20 April 1944. Commissioned Warrant Officer Bruner landed with the assault elements of the division at Guadalcanal, rendered invaluable service in the extremely difficult problem of installing the initial tactical wire system, and in maintaining that system during the succeeding four months of intensive aerial and surface bombardment, despite serious shortages of equipment, supplies and complete lack of replacements for numerous casualties. His technical skill, dogged devotion to duty, initiative and outstanding leadership contributed materially to the success of the campaign during its most critical period. Commissioned Warrant Officer Bruner displayed equal courage and similar high standards of accomplishment during the Cape Gloucester Campaign, by installing and maintaining the tactical wire communications system despite difficulties occasioned by torrential rains of the monsoon season and by almost impenetrable jungle. His conduct throughout both campaigns was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commissioned Warrant Officer Bruner is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)