The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Colonel Alpha L. Bowser (MCSN: 0-4749), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Assistant Chief of Staff, G-3, FIRST Marine Division, while engaged in combat operations against the enemy in Korea, during the period 15 September to 2 November 1950. Colonel Bowser displayed exceptional professional ability, great initiative and a keen perception of operational requirements in the performance of his duties. He personally organized and capably developed the G-3 section into a smoothly functioning and highly efficient organization. By continuous study of the tactical situation as affected by the enemy situation and instructions from higher units, he was able to offer the Commanding General sound recommendations based on the tactical situation. As a result of his skill, initiative, and foresight, his services contributed materially to the success of the Division. Colonel Bowser’s skilled services and exemplary conduct throughout this period were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Colonel Bowser is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Colonel Alpha L. Bowser (MCSN: 0-4749), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Assistant Chief of Staff, G-3, FIRST Marine Division while engaged in combat operations against the enemy in Korea, during the period 3 November 1950 to 20 April 1951. Serving as Assistant Chief of Staff he proved invaluable with his sound, tactful, professional knowledge of employing the various units of the Division. Coordinating the efforts of all units of the Division during the Chosin Reservoir operations he aided the Chief of Staff in successfully planning the strategic withdrawal and defense of the Division against a numerically superior enemy. Although often subjected to enemy fire he displayed exceptional professional ability, great initiative and a keen perception of operational requirements in the performance of his duties. He capably developed the G-3 Section into a smoothly functioning and highly efficient organization. By continuous study of tactical situation and instructions from higher units, he was able to offer the Commanding General sound recommendations based on the tactical situation. As a result of his skill, initiative and foresight, his services contributed materially to the success of the Division. Colonel Bowser’s skilled services and exemplary conduct throughout this period were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Colonel Bowser is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)