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 (Air Corps) William Madison Garland, United States Army Air Forces, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in improving the degree of bombardment training in the VIII Bomber Command. Through his untiring effort, professional ability, and active personal interest he has contributed greatly to the exceedingly high degree of bombardment training now so markedly noticeable in this unit. This officer, through personal contact with combat crews, was able to study their problems and to teach and instill in them a knowledge (remainder of citation missing).

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Colonel (Air Corps) William Madison Garland, United States Army Air Forces, was awarded a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as A-3, Headquarters, EIGHTH Air Force, in the European Theater of Operations from 1943 to 1944. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Garland and his dedicated contributions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.