The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Colonel James O. Appleyard (MCSN: 0-6609), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Operations Officer of a Marine Artillery Regiment during operations in Korea from 3 November 1950 to 1 April 1951. Lieutenant Colonel Appleyard discharged his responsibilities wisely and with meticulous attention to detail. By his sound knowledge of artillery capabilities and outstanding professional skill, he prepared plans which placed destructive artillery fire throughout the Division zone of action. During the attack on Hungnam, Korea, from the Chosin Reservoir, he prepared plans and in addition coordinated the fires of other artillery units in such an efficient and expeditious manner that the maximum amount of artillery fire was afforded the Division along the route of advance. During the reorganization and re-equipping of the artillery regiment at Masan, Korea, he so effectively planned the training that a high state of combat efficiency was regained in a minimum amount of time. By his initiative and competent approach to all problems, he was directly responsible in developing and sustaining the efficient operations of the units of his regiment, thereby contributing materially to the success achieved by the Division and serving as an inspiration for all members of his command. Lieutenant Colonel Appleyard’s skilled service and exemplary conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Colonel Appleyard is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)