The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Colonel Francis W. Augustine (MCSN: 0-8252), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving with the FIRST Marine Division during operations against the enemy in Korea from 5 June 1952 to 19 April 1953. Serving as Executive Officer of an Engineer Battalion and later as Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Augustine displayed outstanding proficiency and resourcefulness in the execution of his duties. During all phases of combat operations, he exhibited the highest degree of competence and obtained the maximum efficiency from the personnel and equipment available to the organization. When the facilities of the battalion were taxed to the utmost, he made personal tours of areas which often were under the observation and fire of the enemy. Lieutenant Colonel Augustine supervised the improvement and building of roads, air strips and bridges, thereby contributing materially to the successful flow of needed supplies to front line units. Combining inspirational leadership with sound tactical judgment and administrative knowledge, he guided his battalion to a peak of combat efficiency. Lieutenant Colonel Augustine’s exemplary conduct and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Colonel Augustine is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)