The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Colonel James S. Blais (MCSN: 0-5312), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as a member of the staff of Commander SEVENTH Amphibious Force from June 1943 to February 1945. In his capacity of Staff Gunnery Officer he was directly concerned with the planning and execution of amphibious landings in the Southwest Pacific area starting from the eastern tip of New Guinea and extending through the Bismarck Archipelago to the Philippine Islands. These included landings at Lae, Finschhafen, Armoc, Cape Gloucester, Saidor, Admiralty Islands, Aitape, Humboldt Bay – Tanahmerah, Roemfoor, Sansapor, Leyte and Lingayen. His sound judgment and skill in the preparation of naval gunfire plans and his excellence in the execution of these plans were essential factors in the success of the amphibious campaign in the Southwest Pacific Area. His performance of duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Colonel Blais is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)