The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Colonel John Brian Sweeney (MCSN: 0-7883), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving as Chief of Staff, THIRD Marine Division, from 20 April 1966 to 20 March 1967, and subsequently as the THIRD Marine Division Representative at DaNang from 21 March to 6 April 1967, in connection with military operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. Working under extremely austere conditions, Colonel Sweeney skillfully directed and coordinated the efforts of the Division’s General and Special Staff Sections. Through his vast professional knowledge of staff functioning and military tactics, he overcame the complexities and numerous details involved in the coordination of the Division’s operations with those of other commands. During this period, the THIRD Marine Division conducted thirty major combat operations, including MACON, HASTINGS, PRAIRIE and CHINOOK. Tirelessly planning to solve the complex staff and tactical requirements involved in coordinating air, sea and ground elements for multi-battalion operations, Colonel Sweeney served as an inspiration to all with whom he was associated and contributed immeasurably to the success of the THIRD Marine Division units engaged in combat operations. Keenly aware of the unique complexities involved in a counterinsurgency environment, he devoted much of his time to planning, forming and expanding the Combined Action Companies within the THIRD Marine Division’s Tactical Area of Responsibility. With the realignment of forces in the I Corps Tactical Zone in October 1966, the THIRD Marine Division displaced from the DaNang area of operation to the Hue Phu Bai area in the northern province of Thua Thien. Exhibiting keen foresight and judgment, Colonel Sweeney personally ensured the efficient planning, coordination and supervision of the complex move, while maintaining maximum combat effectiveness. As a result of his diligent planning and superior leadership, the displacement was executed quickly and efficiently. In addition to his participation in the planning of Marine Corps combined actions programs, Colonel Sweeney was actively engaged in planning and organizing joint operations with Army of the Republic of Vietnam forces. His contacts with high ranking officials of both the United States and Vietnamese Governments were accomplished with dispatch, tact and efficiency. His superior efforts relieved the Commanding General of burdensome details involved in maintaining effective liaison through diverse channels. Subsequently assigned as the THIRD Marine Division’s Representative in the DaNang area, he supervised and coordinated the movement of the division rear elements north to the Phu Bai Tactical Area of Responsibility. Maintaining close liaison with Headquarters, THIRD Marine Amphibious Force, FIRST Marine Division and FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, he continued to contributed immeasurably to the accomplishment of the THIRD Marine Division’s mission. By his inspiring leadership, exceptional professional skill and unwavering dedication to duty throughout, Colonel Sweeney upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. (Colonel Sweeney is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)