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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Gordon Singles (ASN: 0-18522), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States with the 100th Infantry Battalion, 442d Infantry Regiment, in Italy from 15 April to 10 August 1944. As Commanding Officer of the 100th Infantry Battalion (Separate), Lieutenant Colonel Singles exhibited skillful and aggressive leadership in leading his troops in the successful drive on the city of Rome and the subsequent rapid advance up the Italian peninsula. He commanded a task force in an operation which spearheaded a break-through to Rome and greatly expedited the final liberation of the city itself. In the action near Belvedre, Italy, he quickly planned and vigorously executed an operation which resulted in the complete destruction of the right flank position of the German Army, inflicting heavy losses upon the enemy and facilitating the rapid advance of an Infantry division in the sector. Lieutenant Colonel Singles then led his troops in capturing and exploiting the capture of several towns which led to the fall of the important town of Leghorn. Throughout the action before Rome and the subsequent rout of the enemy, Lieutenant Colonel Singles displayed exceptional comprehension of the tactical situation at all times, absolute devotion to duty and skillful handling of his troops. His performance was a material factor in perpetuating the 100th Infantry Battalion’s reputation as an effective, hard-hitting and well-disciplined combat unit. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Lieutenant Colonel Singles and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army.