The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Legion of Merit to Brigadier General Frederick Corbin Blesse (AFSN: 0-17010A), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, Headquarters SEVENTH Air Force, from 16 January 1971 to 9 July 1971. During this period, General Blesse’s dynamic leadership in the management and execution of Free World air power has advanced the attainability of free world objectives in Southeast Asia. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Blesse and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.