The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Joseph Dwight McKinney (NSN: 0-61536), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Chief of Staff on the Staff of the Commander Amphibious Group THREE during the period 29 March 1952 to 28 January 1953. Displaying a thorough understanding of all amphibious operations in the Far East, Captain McKinney was instrumental in providing effective planning and execution of the amphibious training of Army and Marine regiments and battalions; the transportation of thousands of prisoners of war by ships in Korean waters; the successful amphibious demonstration off Eastern Korea in October 1952; and many other diverse amphibious operations. Throughout this period, he discharged his many responsibilities with exceptional skill, foresight and perseverance and contributed materially to the outstanding amphibious conduct and training of the Naval, Army and Marine forces in the Far East. His outstanding professional ability, resolute determination and conscientious devotion to the fulfillment of a vital task reflect the highest credit upon Captain McKinney and the United States Naval Service. (Captain McKinney is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)