The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Victor Dismukes Long (NSN: 0-59709), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Screen Commander for an Escort Carrier Task Unit, in operations against enemy Japanese forces in support of the invasion of Luzon, Philippine Islands, January 1945. Skillfully directing his screen in destroying numerous aircraft while under heavy attack, Captain Long rendered outstanding service in rescuing a total of 348 men from a sinking escort carrier as well as rescuing many airmen from planes which had been forced to make water landings. His courage, leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Long is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)



