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 Lieutenant Colonel (Medical Corps) Charles E. Rea (ASN: 0-291771), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from December 1943 to August 1945. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Rea 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.