The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Major General Robert E. Friedrich, United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Special Assistant to the Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps from April 1978 to May 1980. Major General Friedrich consistently rendered advice and counsel of inestimable value in analyzing existing plans and programs relevant to Total Force Policy and the Marine Corps Reserve. A perceptive and analytical manager, he applied his dynamic ability and vast experience in corporate legal affairs to the projects withy which he was associated. The experience, knowledge, and keen insight Major General Friedrich demonstrates as a member of the Reserve Forces Policy Board and the Marine Corps Reserve Policy Board have enhanced his noteworthy record of personal achievements and contributed significantly to total mission success. By his rare blend of integrity, great competence and vision, and unrelenting dedication to duty, Major General Friedrich reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.