The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Colonel George Clifton Axtell, Jr. (MCSN: 0-6857), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as the Chief of Staff, III Marine Amphibious Force while deployed in the Republic of Vietnam during the period September 1965 through March 1966. During this period, Colonel Axtell displayed exceptional leadership skill and professional knowledge while directing the operations and functions of the III Marine Amphibious Force Staff. As Chief of Staff, he was confronted with the task of directing a newly formed staff which was required to deal with the rapidly expanding operational and administrative requirements of the III Marine Amphibious Force, and its additional responsibilities as the Naval Component Commander, Vietnam; Senior Advisor, I Corps Tactical Zone of the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam; and Area Coordinator, I Corps Tactical Zone. Employing his unique organizational skill and management ability, he established clear lines of authority and administration for the functioning of the four separate staffs. He skillfully overcame the effects of personnel and equipment shortages to mold an undermanned III Marine Amphibious Force Staff into an efficient and responsive organization which performed the functions of all four of the above mentioned staffs. When the rapid buildup of Marine Forces in Vietnam necessitated revision of the existing supply support structure, Colonel Axtell assisted in the planning and development of the Force Logistic Command, simultaneously assisting in the planning for the transfer of Naval Component Commander responsibilities to a separate Navy command. His continuous personal efforts in coordinating with all elements in the I Corps Tactical Zone, in liaison with the Commander, Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, and in the informational services field were a significant contribution to the success of the III Marine Amphibious Force. By his outstanding leadership, judgment and inspiring devotion to duty throughout, Colonel Axtell upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Colonel Axtell is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)