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Legion of Merit
noun phrase
: a U.S. military decoration awarded for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services
Examples of Legion of Merit in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Dendy, who died several months ago, was the recipient of the Legion of Merit and the Air Medal for exceptionally meritorious service with the 45th Infantry Regiment in Vietnam.
—Alexandria Burris, The Indianapolis Star, 11 Nov. 2024
Yankees go on to win, 7-5. 1945 — World heavyweight boxing champion Joe Louis is discharged from US army after being awarded the Legion of Merit.
1961 — Roger Maris hits his 61st home run of the season, against Tracy Stallard of the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium.
—Houston Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2024
During his military career, Kelly received numerous medals, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, and multiple Air Medals.
—Ronald J. Hansen, The Arizona Republic, 20 July 2024
He was awarded the Legion of Merit, the federal Meritorious Service Medal and the Maryland Distinguished Service Cross.
—Jacques Kelly, Baltimore Sun, 9 July 2024
His decorations included two Legion of Merit citations, five Distinguished Flying Crosses, the Bronze Star and 16 Air Medals.
—Richard Goldstein, New York Times, 18 May 2024
His other decorations included the Distinguished Service Medal, two Legion of Merit honors and two Purple Hearts.
—Harrison Smith, Washington Post, 29 Nov. 2023
Soon thereafter, at the White House, President Dwight D. Eisenhower awarded Lieutenant Walsh the Legion of Merit.
—William J. Broad, New York Times, 18 Nov. 2023
His father, a career Army officer who retired as a colonel, earned the Legion of Merit during World War II and moved the family to Menlo Park, Calif.
—Harrison Smith, Washington Post, 14 Nov. 2023
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Word History
First Known Use
1942, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near Legion of Merit
Cite this Entry
“Legion of Merit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Legion%20of%20Merit. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.
More from Merriam-Webster on Legion of Merit
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Legion of Merit
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