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 (Field Artillery) Junius S. Stearns (ASN: 0-371241), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations from 30 September 1944 to 2 September 1945. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Lieutenant Colonel Stearns and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army.