The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Major General Charles F. B. Price (MCSN: 0-786), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States. As Commanding General, Samoa from 28 April 1942 until 1 March 1944 he was charged with the defense and development of the Samoan Area. The expeditious manner in which he carried out this assignment was a material contribution toward the success of South and later Central Pacific offensives. The occupation and development of the Ellice Islands made possible the logistic support necessary for the seizure and occupation of the Gilbert Islands thereby opening the Central Pacific to United States Forces. Throughout this period his perseverance, administrative ability, and tact were a major contribution toward the development of the Samoan Area into a staging point and a training area for Marine jungle troops. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Major General Price is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)