The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Colonel Merritt Adelman (MCSN: 0-5556), 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 a Marine Artillery Battalion and assistant coordinator of the fire support coordination center during operations in Korea from 3 November 1950 to 27 March 1951. Colonel Adelman, by his sound knowledge of artillery capabilities and professional skill, provided maximum artillery support in an expeditious and efficient manner, in spite of inadequate position area, routes of approach, sub-zero temperatures and long logistic supply lines. By his resourcefulness and aggressive actions during the attack from Koto-ri, Korea, to Hungnam, Korea, he overcame communication difficulties caused by separated subordinate units, using a relay station in an observation aircraft to effectively control his fire and furnish artillery support for the infantry unit to which he was attached. During the reorganization and reequipping of the fire support coordination center at Hasan, Korea, and the subsequent employment in the north central phase of the Korean offensive, his professional knowledge, initiative, competence, and meticulous attention to detail were instrumental in maintaining effective coordination with other staff sections of the Division. An extremely capable and inspiring leader, he was directly responsible in sustaining the efficient operation of his battalion and the fire support coordination center, thereby contributing materially to the success achieved by the Division and inspiring the men of his command to greater efforts. Colonel Adelman’s skilled service and exemplary conduct throughout this period were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Colonel Adelman is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)