(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel Donald James Matthew Blakeslee (ASN: 0-885264), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States, culminating as Special Assistant to the Director of Operations for SEVENTEENTH Air Force from December 1964 until 30 April 1965. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Blakeslee culminate a long and distinguished career in the service of his country and his dedicated contributions in the Service of his Country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.