(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel (Judge Advocate General Corps) John Charles Cruden, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States with the Officer of the Judge Advocate, Headquarters, U. S. Army, Europe, from 1977 to 1978. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Cruden and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Colonel (Judge Advocate General Corps) John Charles Cruden, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as the Staff Judge Advocate, 3d Armored Division, in Germany, from 1985 to 1987. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Cruden and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.