The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Colonel Frederick Rounsville Payne, Jr. (MCSN: 0-5161), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States during operations against the enemy in Korea. Colonel Payne served as Executive Officer from 29 February 1952 to 20 March 1952 and as Commanding Officer from 21 March 1952 to 18 May 195 of a Marine Air Control Group. During the period 19 May 1952 to 29 September 1952 he served as FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing Liaison Officer with the FIFTH Air Force Headquarters. While serving as Commanding Officer, Colonel Payne discharged his many responsibilities with diligence and exceptional ability. He demonstrated an intense interest in the improvement of facilities and operations, and executed the most economical and effective utilization of available equipment and personnel. As Liaison Officer, Colonel Payne, by his outstanding professional ability and through comprehension of inter-service relationships rendered invaluable assistance in establishing improved procedures for the employment under the operational control of the FIFTH Air Force of combat elements of the FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing and in promoting complete understanding and unity of effort of the two commands in their operations against the enemy. He demonstrated a thorough grasp of the tactical situation at all times and his keen analysis of related operational problems distinguished him in his relationships with the Staff Sections with which he worked. Colonel Payne’s exceptional judgment and professional competence in the outstandingly superior performance of duties in positions of great responsibility were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Colonel Payne is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)