The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Legion of Merit (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel Virgil W. Banning (MCSN: 0-6740), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea during the period from 21 February through 25 April 1951. Lieutenant Colonel Banning consistently displayed outstanding professional skill, courage, and initiative in leading his battalion in the attack north from Wonju, and in the defense of the division flank at the Mojin bridge. Operating under difficult extremes of weather, over rugged mountainous terrain, he disregarded completely his own safety and fatigue in deploying his companies, and demonstrated excellent tactical knowledge both in the attack and in the defense. A most capable and inspiring leader, he expertly led his battalion to the completion of all assigned missions, thereby aiding materially in the success achieved by the regiment. Lieutenant Colonel Banning’s skilled service and exemplary conduct throughout this period, until he was seriously wounded by enemy fire and forced to submit to evacuation over his own protests, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.