The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Mahone Rees, Jr. (ASN: 0-255296), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from September 1942 to September 1945. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Rees and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army. (This award supersedes the award of the Bronze Star Medal to Lieutenant Colonel Rees, for service from 5 September 1942 to 30 June 1945, as published in General Orders 18, United States Army Force, Pacific, 11 June 1946.)