330-PSA-133-60 (USN 710762):  Rear Admiral Ward receives the Legion of Merit on Retirement.   Rear Admiral Chester C. Ward, USN, (center) wears the Legion of Merit just presented to him by Secretary of the Navy William B. Franke, (left).  Admiral Arleigh A. Burke, Chief of Naval Operations, (right), attended the presentation ceremonies.  The award was made in the Secretary’s office as Admiral Ward was being replaced as Judge Advocate General of the Navy by his assistant, Captain William. C. Mott.  The award was accompanied by a citation with read in part:  “For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the government of the United States as Judge Advocate General – his complete dedication to the complex problems and tasks confronting him have made his contributions truly unique.  His opinions have established authoritative procedures in the field of space law and law of the sea – in the relationship – to the preservation of the United States seapower and military posture.  He has been widely acclaimed for his realistically expressed convictions concerning the legal posture of the Cold War and the Communist Conspiracy.  He has – performed outstanding services in efforts by the United States to preserve the principle of the “freedom of the seas.”   He has established speed, simplicity and economy in the administration of (naval) justice.   His outstanding application of professional knowledge, devotion to duty and exceptional leadership have been in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.   Admiral Ward retired from the Navy August 1, the date of the award.  Photograph released August 2, 1960.  (8/25/2015).
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