The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Sergeant Major Clinton A. Puckett (MCSN: 560129), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps from 1 February 1973 to 31 May 1975. Throughout the period cited, Sergeant Major Puckett consistently demonstrated extraordinary judgment and unswerving dedication in discharging his especially demanding duties as the principal enlisted assistant to the Commandant of the Marine Corps. In his appearance, bearing, and forthright manner Sergeant Major Puckett combined the institutional virtues which have been long associated with Marines. Truly a Marine’s Marine, he brought to his position the accumulated wisdom of a long and distinguished career, which he applied indefatigably to the improvement of the morale and welfare of the individual Marine. In so doing he contributed inestimably to the overall benefit of the Marine Corps, while simultaneously greatly enhancing the prestige and effectiveness of his office. In addition, in his extensive travels and numerous appearances in the civilian as well as military community, and in his sage messaged to the Corps, he set a philosophical and moral tone for all Marines to emulate; one that will stand as one of his more permanent contributions to the Corps. In his own phrase he did more than “continue the march,” he “accelerated the pace.” Equally noteworthy were his perceptive and knowledgeable suggestions and recommendations to the Commandant of the Marine Corps and to the Headquarters Staff which resulted in the implementation and adoption of a number of innovative and far-reaching policies and procedures. By his outstanding leadership, superlative judgment and selfless devotion throughout, Sergeant Major Puckett has upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.