The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Burton Gay Lake (NSN: 0-17983), United States Navy, 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 January 1945. As Force Planning Officer he was in charge of planning for all amphibious operations in the Southwest Pacific and as Force Tactical Officer he was directly responsible for their execution. These operations which were initiated in Southwest New Guinea and extended through the Bismarck Archipelago and Molucca Island to the Philippines, included the landings at Cape Gloucester, Saidor, Admiralty Islands, Aitape-Humboldt Bay-Tanamerah, Wakde, Biak, Noemfoor, Sansapor, Morotai, Leyte and Luzon. His sound judgment in the preparation of these plans and his able seamanship and tactical skill in their execution were essential factors in the success of the amphibious campaign in the Southwest Pacific Area. His outstanding performance of duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Lake is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)