The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel (Corps of Engineers) John W. Wheeler, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from January 1944 to June 1945. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Wheeler 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 Colonel Wheeler, for service from 20 January to 28 February 1945, as published in General Orders 12, Headquarters, XVI Corps, 15 March 1945, and the Bronze Star Medal (Oak Leaf Cluster), for service from 10 March to 31 March 1945, published in General Orders 42, Headquarters, XVI Corps, 8 June 1945.)