The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Colonel (Corps of Engineers) Elmer E. Kirkpatrick (ASN: 0-17660), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from September 1944 to August 1945. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Kirkpatrick 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.