Navy, Army and Foreign Service

AJDUKOVICH, GEORGE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George Ajdukovich, Chief Boatswain's Mate, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as Patrol Officer of two river patrol boats of River Patrol Flotilla FIVE, Task Force ONE HUNDRED SIXTEEN (TF-116), River Assault Division, in a night waterborne guard post on the Muo Hai Canal, Republic of Vietnam, on 7 October 1969. When an enemy grenade was thrown from the bank of the canal and landed on the craft in which Chief Petty Officer Ajdukovich was embarked, he immediately seized the grenade and clasped it to his body in an attempt to protect the lives of his fellow crewmen. Seconds later, when the deadly missile failed to explode, he hurled it into the canal where it detonated underwater almost instantly. With his two patrol boats now under a heavy concentration of automatic-weapons fire from four enemy positions on the river bank, Chief Petty Officer Ajdukovich requested air support and immediately directed a devastating barrage of suppressive fire while leading his units clear of the kill zone. Unable to make any further firing runs on the entrenched enemy force when one of the patrol boats became disabled, Chief Petty Officer Ajdukovich's patrol illuminated and mortared the hostile area until air cover arrived on the scene, and then continued illumination of the target area to help maximize the effects of the air strike. By his valiant fighting spirit, inspiring leadership, and selfless devotion to duty, Chief Petty Officer Ajdukovich was greatly instrumental in leading his patrol to safety without sustaining a single personnel casualty. His heroic initiative was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

ALSPAUGH, TIMOTHY D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Timothy D. Alspaugh, Seaman, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism during operations against an armed enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 25 September 1969. Seaman Alspaugh was the after fifty-caliber machine gunner aboard River Patrol Boat 677, River Division 521, River Patrol Flotilla FIVE, Task Force 116 (TF-116), which had inserted in a night waterborne guard post on the north bank of the Cai Lon River in support of interdiction operations in Kien Giang Province. His boat was acting as cover boat and had taken a position about fifty yards astern of the patrol's lead boat, with its starboard side to a heavy growth of nipa palm along the river bank. Shortly past midnight, after several hours of waiting quietly in the darkness to detect enemy movement on the water, Seaman Alspaugh observed what he believed to be a sampan on the river upstream from his boat. Alerting his Boat Captain and bringing his machine gun to bear over the port quarter, he was concentrating on the barely visible craft when he was struck on his left side by an object which he instinctively recognized as a grenade thrown from the underbrush. He immediately shouted a warning to his fellow crewmembers, at the same time bending down to search for the grenade, which had come to rest on the pump covers on the far side of his gun mount. Despite the extreme darkness and the imminent danger of an explosion, Seaman Alspaugh succeeded in locating the grenade and quickly threw it back into the small clearing from which it had been thrown. Even before the grenade exploded near the enemy's position, he was firing, his fifty-caliber machine gun into the brush, continuing until the boats were clear of the area. Because of Seaman Alspaugh's quick reaction and disregard for his own personal safety, the patrol escaped without casualty. His extraordinary courage and selfless devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

*ASHBY, JAMES WESLEY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James Wesley Ashby (9140268), Hospitalman Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism on 1 June 1967 while serving as a Corpsman with Company L, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam. During a search and destroy operation, Petty Officer Ashby's company came under intense fire from a large, North Vietnamese Army force deeply entrenched in a cleverly-concealed and heavily defended bunker complex, and suffered heavy casualties during the first few minutes of the fierce battle. Responding immediately, Petty Officer Ashby dashed from his position of relative safety and, seemingly impervious to the murderous hostile, automatic-weapons fire sweeping the area, moved through the open terrain, treating and encouraging the wounded. Completely aware of the grave danger involved in remaining in a position exposed to the withering enemy fire, he staunchly refused to seek cover while there were wounded Marines in need of assistance, placing the welfare of his wounded comrades above his own personal safety. As he knelt over a seriously wounded Marine, shielding the Marine with his own body while administering lifesaving first aid, Petty Officer Ashby was mortally wounded by enemy sniper fire. By his inspiring courage in the face of great personal danger, his deep compassion for his comrades-in-arms, his outstanding professional ability, and his unfaltering devotion to duty, he succeeded in saving the lives of many Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Park Rapids, Minnesota

BACK, JAMES BERNARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James Bernard Back (715747), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism on 28 February 1968 while serving as the Regimental Surgeon with the First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Vietnam. When a Marine was admitted to the regimental aid station suffering from serious wounds sustained when his tracked vehicle came under intense B-40 rocket fire, Lieutenant Back, upon treating the casualty, alertly observed a large, cylindrical, foreign object imbedded in the casualty's lower right side. Unable to identify the object, he requested assistance and was informed the projectile appeared to be an M-79 grenade. Fully aware of the dangers involved, Lieutenant Back operated and found a colored metal cylinder. He resolutely proceeded with the delicate operation without the aid of body armor and despite the danger of the device exploding upon the slightest movement. Displaying extraordinary courage and exceptional professional competence, Lieutenant Back continued his task until he had completely freed the object and carried it outside for disposal. Upon closer examination, it was revealed that the wound had been caused by the fuse of a B-40 rocket, an extremely sensitive and highly explosive device. By his bold initiative, outstanding professional skill, and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Lieutenant Back upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

BAKER, HAROLD L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Harold L. Baker, Radioman Second Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action on the night of 20 December 1970 while serving as the rear security for a five-man Sea-Air-Land Team ONE (SEAL-1) patrol on an interdiction mission deep within enemy territory in the Republic of Vietnam. Immediately after inserting ashore, the patrol came under withering enemy fire from automatic weapons, grenades, and rockets, mortally wounding the patrol leader and the automatic weapons man, and critically wounding the patrol's radioman and Vietnamese guide. Although he was not wounded, Petty Officer Baker found himself in the river waters struggling to keep his head above the surface. Through sheer determination, he pulled himself and the body of a fallen comrade onto the bank and then returned a heavy volume of automatic weapons fire toward the enemy in an effort to stave off an assault on the squad's position. Subsequently, Petty Officer Baker administered lifesaving first aid to the two wounded members of the patrol and directed the recovery of the bodies of the patrol leader and the automatic weapons man. By his great personal valor and fighting spirit in the face of heavy enemy fire, he upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

BARATKO, ROBERT EDWARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Edward Baratko (741174), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism on 15 September 1970 while serving as the Aircraft Commander of an attack helicopter, attached to Helicopter Attack (Light) Squadron THREE (HAL(L)-3), Task Force 116 (TF-116), during operations against enemy forces in the Republic of Vietnam. Lieutenant (j.g.) Baratko participated in a mission to provide cover for a medical evacuation helicopter which had previously attempted to evacuate several seriously wounded personnel in the face of intense enemy fire. As his plane and three others entered the evacuation area, the surrounding tree lines erupted with intense fire which downed two aircraft and seriously damaged a third. Lieutenant (j.g.) Baratko's aircraft sustained several critical hits, including one through the fuel tank. With the only flyable attack helicopter on the scene, he provided gun- ship coverage while the medical evacuation helicopter eventually succeeded in rescuing the downed crews. As he was flying this coverage, Lieutenant (j.g.) Baratko's plane was again subjected to heavy fire and sustained several more hits. After the medical evacuation helicopter departed the area, Lieutenant (j.g.) Baratko flew to a nearby landing strip with his fuel supply practically exhausted. By his perseverance and great personal valor in the face of almost overwhelming odds, he was directly instrumental in saving the lives of several of his shipmates. His selfless and determined efforts were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

BARBER, WILLIAM B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William B. Barber, Hospitalman Third Class [then Hospitalman], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism on 25 November 1968 while serving as a Corpsman with Company I, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with combat operations against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Vietnam. During the afternoon hours, Petty Officer Barber was accompanying a platoon engaged in patrol activities in Quang Tri Province. While crossing an abandoned landing zone, the unit was attacked by a well-entrenched North Vietnamese army force employing command-detonated mines, rocket-propelled grenades, and automatic weapons which wounded four Marines and forced the others to seek cover in a nearby wooded area. Observing that the four casualties were lying dangerously exposed to hostile fire, Petty Officer Barber disregarded his own safety to reach one of the fallen men. After administering first aid, Petty Officer Barber moved the man to a safer position and, undaunted by the extremely heavy volume of enemy fire, boldly maneuvered across the area on two more occasions to provide medical care and assist the second and third casualties to covered positions. He then braved the intense fire for a fourth time, placing himself between the last of the wounded Marines and the enemy fire during the fifteen minutes required to administer first aid. With the supporting fire of helicopters on station and the concentrated fire of his platoon, Petty Officer Barber was able to remove the wounded Marine to the relative safety of the wooded area. He then skillfully rendered medical aid and comforted all four casualties, directing their movement to a medical evacuation helicopter for embarkation and extraction. By his superb professional skill, outstanding valor, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Petty Officer Barber inspired all who observed him and was instrumental in saving four lives. His daring initiative was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

*BAY, TRAN VAN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Tran Van Bay, Private First Class, Army of the Republic of Vietnam, for extraordinary heroism in connection with operations against insurgent Communist (Viet Cong) forces while serving with the 3d Company, 3d Battalion, 51st Regiment, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Tran Van Bay heroically sacrificed his life to prevent serious injury or death to an American comrade. Situated with his unit along a road in Hieu Duc District, Quang Nam Province, Private First Class Tran and his fellow Vietnamese soldiers were taken under sudden intense rifle and automatic weapons fire from an unknown number of Viet Cong. The men of Company G, Second Battalion, 4th Marines, in pursuit of an assigned objective, were simultaneously moving along the road amidst the Vietnamese soldiers when their advance was halted by the same heavy fire. Taking immediate cover off the side of the road, Marines and friendly Vietnamese alike prepared to return the fire which was now sporadic. Private First Class Tran, in close proximity to Private First Class Samuel R. Vitello, U.S. Marine Corps, observed a "booby trap" which threatened the life of the Marine. Without hesitation and with utter disregard for his own safety, Private First Class Tran violently pushed the Marine from the path of the instrument of death which was instantly activated. In performing this selfless act, the dauntless Tran exposed himself to the full blast of the explosive. As a direct result of this intrepid action, Private First Class Vitello escaped with painful but minor wounds in contrast with the Vietnamese soldier who was mortally wounded. Private First Class Tran's devotion to duty and magnificent display of uncommon valor were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States and the Republic of Vietnam. He gallantly gave his life in the service of the Free World Military Forces.
Approved by the Secretary of Defense on February 16, 1968

*BENOIT, FRANCIS ARTHUR
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Francis Arthur Benoit (9140346), Hospitalman Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism on 16 March 1967 while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam. While returning to the Company Command Post from a night platoon patrol base, Petty Officer Benoit's platoon was suddenly attacked by an enemy force employing small arms, automatic weapons, and hand grenades. Observing several wounded men, Petty Officer Benoit rushed forward into the intense enemy fire to administer medical aid, but was wounded, himself, by a hand grenade before reaching the casualties. Stunned and temporarily unable to move, he waited for the wounded to be brought to him, and then quickly and competently rendered medical assistance while exposed to enemy fire. After the attack had subsided and the wounded had been put aboard an evacuation helicopter, he refused to be evacuated and thus leave the platoon without a Corpsman. When the second helicopter came in, the landing zone was hit by enemy mortar fire, inflicting additional casualties. Petty Officer Benoit again stayed behind to treat the wounded. He was helping the last wounded man into the third helicopter, before boarding himself, when he was fatally wounded by an enemy mortar round. By his technical skill, courage and inspiring devotion to duty, Petty Officer Benoit undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his fallen comrades. His heroic actions were in the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Red Lake Falls, Minnesota

BLONSKI, THOMAS JOSEPH JOHN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas Joseph John Blonski (731168), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism on 10 May 1972 as a Naval Flight Officer of jet aircraft in Fighter Squadron NINETY-SIX (VF-96), embarked in U.S.S. Constellation (CVA-64), during a major air wing strike against an enemy rail yard in North Vietnam. As the radar intercept officer in the lead aircraft of a section carrying out target combat air patrol, Lieutenant Blonski maintained visual contact with a format on of approximately sixteen enemy fighter aircraft and warned the retiring strike force of the oncoming threat. In the face of the overwhelming enemy odds, he aided his pilot in engaging the numerically superior aircraft and in pressing home several hard-fought attacks which resulted in the destruction of two enemy planes and the dispersion of the remaining aircraft out of range of the strike force. Lieutenant Blonski's professional skill, courage and dedication reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

BRAUN, KENNETH R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Kenneth R. Braun (9188839), Hospital Corpsman Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism as Corpsman, Command Group, India Company, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, in connection with combat operations against North Vietnamese regular forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 30 and 31 March 1967. while on a battalion level sweep in the vicinity of Hill 70, Quang Tri Province, India Company came in contact with an estimated battalion of enemy soldiers supported by mortar and rocket fire. The command group was immediately under heavy automatic fire and ground attack, suffering numerous casualties. In close combat conditions, Petty Officer Braun, although having received serious shrapnel wounds from the initial firefight, quickly began administering medical aid to those around him. Seeing that their current position was untenable and as casualties mounted, the order was given to pull back. Realizing that many wounded Marines were forward of his position, and disregarding his own safety and wounds, Petty Officer Braun moved throughout the fire swept area, treating the wounded and exposing himself to enemy fire. Time and again, he dragged the wounded across open terrain, shielding them from fire with his body while pulling them to safety. Trading his pistol for a rifle, Petty Officer Braun fought his way back down the hill to where Marines were pinned down and suffering heavy casualties; moving from Marine to Marine, with total disregard for his own safety, he fearlessly and skillfully administered medical aid to the wounded while simultaneously engaging the enemy. With enemy forces in position, Petty Officer Braun did not withdraw, but continued to treat the wounded and though armed with a malfunctioning weapon was able to kill two enemy soldiers while protecting his Marines. Maintaining the tenuous position while assisting a seriously wounded officer, and with enemy troops all around him, Petty Officer Braun held his position, continued to treat the officer, and held off the enemy with his weapon until shot three times. By his uncommon courage, valiant fighting spirit, and selfless dedication to duty, Petty Officer Braun reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Eden Prairie, Minnesota

BULL, LYLE FRANKLIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lyle Franklin Bull (643704), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism on 30 October 1967 as a Bombardier/Navigator in Attack Squadron ONE HUNDRED NINETY-SIX (VA-196), embarked in U.S.S. Constellation (CVA-64). Exercising exceptional professional skill and sound judgment, Lieutenant Bull assisted in the planning and execution of an extremely dangerous, single-plane, night, radar bombing attack on the strategically located and heavily defended Hanoi railroad ferry slip in North Vietnam. Although the entire Hanoi defensive effort was concentrated upon his lone bomber, he flawlessly assisted his pilot in navigating the aircraft to the target area and commencing an attack. Seconds before bomb release, six enemy surface-to-air missiles were observed to be tracking on his plane. Undaunted by this threat to his personal safety, Lieutenant Bull assisted his pilot in taking swift and effective action to avoid the missiles and complete the attack, releasing all weapons in the target area with extreme accuracy. After release, four more missiles were fired at his aircraft in addition to the intense antiaircraft-artillery fire. In spite of this intense enemy opposition, Lieutenant Bull completed his mission and was directly responsible for dealing a significant blow to the North Vietnamese logistics efforts. His indomitable perseverance and conspicuous gallantry were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

BURNAND, ROBERT W., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert W. Burnand, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in action from 12 through 16 October 1966 while serving in a detachment of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron SIX (HS-6), temporarily embarked in U.S.S. INTREPID (CVS-11), flying as Plane Commander of an armored search and rescue helicopter during a series of related rescue missions in support of combat operations in Southeast Asia. Lieutenant Burnand was vectored to an inland area of North Vietnam on three separate search and rescue flights in valiant attempts to rescue a downed Navy pilot. Although encountering severe enemy ground fire, he persisted in his attempts to locate and rescue the survivor. During the final search into the same area, he and his crew demonstrated fearless bravery while under fire. An accompanying helicopter was riddled by intense enemy automatic-weapons fire which completely disabled one of its engines, forcing it to retire toward the sea. Observing this action, and realizing that it was absolutely mandatory that the operation continue in the same location, Lieutenant Burnand and his crew decided to take a calculated risk and expose themselves to enemy fire in a valiant attempt to thwart the North Vietnamese and complete their mission. By executing skillful evasive maneuvers and effectively directing accurate counterfire at the enemy, he and his crew suppressed enemy resistance to such an extent that they successfully completed their assigned mission. By his outstanding courage, exceptional skill and fearless devotion to duty, Lieutenant Burnand upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

*BURNS, DEWEY RAY, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Dewey Ray Burns, Jr. (B716750), Hospitalman Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism on 13 September 1969 as a Corpsman serving with the Combined Action Platoon 1-3-9, III Marine Amphibious Force, during operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During a concentrated enemy attack upon the village of An Phong in Quang Ngai Province, Petty Officer Burns, on several occasions, charged across fire-swept terrain, rendered medical aid to wounded civilians and defending soldiers and Marines, and carried them to positions of safety. On one occasion, Petty Officer Burns was directly responsible for saving the lives of his patients when he defeated an enemy soldier in hand-to-hand combat. Observing that the platoon's interpreter was wounded and had fallen in the direct line of fire of enemy machine guns, Petty Officer Burns directed nearby Marines to provide covering fire and raced to the side of the casualty. Although he, himself, was seriously wounded while treating the fallen interpreter, he resolutely continued his lifesaving actions until he had stopped his patient's bleeding. He then commenced leading his charge toward a location of relative security, but was mortally wounded before he could attain his objective. Petty Officer Burns' valiant and determined actions served to inspire the other members of his platoon to heroic efforts, resulting in the complete routing of the enemy. By his intrepid fighting spirit, daring initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty, he succeeded in saving several lives, and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Sulphur Springs, Texas

BUSEY, JAMES BUCHANAN, IV
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James Buchanan Busey, IV (586527), Commander [then Lieutenant Commander], U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism on 21 August 1967 as a pilot in Attack Squadron ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-THREE (VA-163), embarked in U.S.S. Oriskany (CVA-34). During a combat mission over North Vietnam, Commander Busey was the leader of a section in a six-aircraft bombing element which attacked the Hanoi thermal power plant in the face of the enemy's most sophisticated and complex arsenal of air defense weapons. As he commenced his attack, Commander Busey sustained antiaircraft hits to his aircraft. He skillfully regained control of his aircraft and, although his plane was severely damaged, renewed his attack, placing his weapon precisely on target. Subsequent bomb damage assessment photography confirmed that he inflicted heavy damage to his assigned portion of the thermal power plant. Although still severely handicapped by his damaged aircraft, Commander Busey evaded four surface-to-air missiles during his egress from the target area. Then, through skillful airmanship, he returned his crippled aircraft to the aircraft carrier. By his tenacious aggressiveness, professionalism, and heroic actions in the face of the enemy's massed and determined defenses, Commander Busey upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

*CAMERON, KENNETH ROBBINS (POW)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Kenneth Robbins Cameron (568282410), Captain [then Commander], U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from 18 May 1967 to 4 October 1970. Under constant pressure from the North Vietnamese in their attempt to gain military information and propaganda material, Captain Cameron experienced severe torture with ropes and by beatings and was kept in solitary confinement. As they persisted in their hostile treatment of him, he continued to resist by feigning sickness and refusing to eat anything but a bare minimum of food. Through those means he was successful in his attempt to keep himself unacceptable in appearance to the North Vietnamese, thus discouraging them from forcing him to meet visiting antiwar delegations for propaganda purposes. He gallantly evaded exploitation by the North Vietnamese throughout his lengthy confinement. By his exceptional courage, determination, and resourcefulness in a most difficult line of resistance, he reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service and the United States Armed Forces.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Berkeley, California

*CASEY, ROBERT MICHAEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Michael Casey (B111377), Hospitalman Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism on 16 May 1968 while serving as a Corpsman with Company G, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During Operation ALLEN BROOK, Company G was moving through a fortified village in Quang Nam Province to engage an estimated 200 North Vietnamese Army Regulars. Suddenly, the point elements came under heavy enemy fire, sustaining numerous casualties. Petty Officer Casey unhesitatingly moved forward under the intense hostile fire and administered medical aid to one of the wounded Marines. Although wounded himself, he disregarded his own injury as he proceeded to another casualty to render medical treatment. Wounded again while assisting his comrade, Petty Officer Casey steadfastly continued his efforts and moved to the aid of still another casualty, receiving two additional wounds while treating the Marine. When other Marines moved forward to evacuate Petty Officer Casey, he adamantly refused to leave the battle area, stating that he wanted to continue to treat the wounded. After being evacuated to the rear by his companions, he encouraged the casualties around him and provided instructions to others in applying battle dressings. Upon hearing a wounded Marine call for aid, Petty Officer Casey dauntlessly crawled to the man and, while treating his injuries, was mortally wounded. By his unflagging courage, selfless concern for the welfare of his comrades, and unfaltering devotion to duty, Petty Officer Casey upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Guttenberg, New Jersey

CLAY, RAYMOND D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Raymond D. Clay (2318817), Hospitalman, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Corpsman, 1st Platoon, Company G, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam on 24 September 1966. When a Marine from his platoon suffered a severe head wound shortly after the company encountered a North Vietnamese force estimated at regimental strength and employing intense mortar and small-arms fire, Hospitalman Clay, without hesitation, crawled approximately twenty meters through intense fire to aid the wounded Marine. As he began to treat the wounded man, an enemy grenade exploded about ten meters away. Although bleeding profusely from wounds caused by flying shrapnel, Hospitalman Clay continued treating the Marine until two more grenades landed near him, one falling so close to his legs that he immediately kicked it into the bushes, while the second grenade fell next to him and the wounded Marine. Hospitalman Clay quickly threw himself between the grenade and his patient and, in so doing, absorbed the shrapnel and shock with his own body, saving the wounded Marine from further injury and possible death. The force of this explosion hurled Hospitalman Clay into the bushes, where yet another grenade exploded, increasing the number of his wounds. He then laboriously and with great pain crawled to the rear. Hospitalman Clay's exceptional spirit and fortitude greatly increased the morale of the wounded Marines around him. His inspiring and courageous actions in jeopardizing his own life in order that his patient might live were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia

COKER, GEORGE THOMAS (POW)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George Thomas Coker (669409), Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism during an extremely daring escape from a solitary confinement cell while a Prisoner of War in Hanoi, North Vietnam on 12 October 1967. During a period of particularly harsh treatment, Lieutenant Commander Coker and another prisoner executed an escape as a two-man team despite the high risk of brutal reprisal or possible loss of life. That night, after opening the cell door by removing door bolt brackets from inside the room, he proceeded over the wall and through several blocks of housing to the Domer Bridge. Walking under the bridge to the Red River's edge, he swam downstream all night and at sunrise buried himself in a mud bank in an effort to remain concealed. He was later discovered, recaptured, severely beaten for many hours, and banished to solitary confinement for two and a half years. His extraordinary courage, aggressiveness in the face of the enemy, and dedication to his country reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Naval Service and the United States Armed Forces.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Born: July 14, 1943 at Amarillo, Texas

COMPTON, BRYAN WHITFIELD, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Bryan Whitfield Compton, Jr. (542886), Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism as a pilot and as Commanding Officer of Attack Squadron ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-THREE (VA-163), embarked in U.S.S. Oriskany (CVA-34), on 21 August 1967. As the strike leader of a major coordinated air attack against the Hanoi Thermal Power Plant, Hanoi, North Vietnam, Commander Compton, with precise navigation and timing, led the strike group to the target area through an extremely intense array of sophisticated enemy defenses, including at least twenty-eight surface-to-air missiles and heavy, accurate antiaircraft fire. Despite the continuing heavy enemy opposition in the target area, Commander Compton skillfully maneuvered his strike forces and led them in an attack which inflicted major damage upon the target. During the attack, strike aircraft incurred extensive battle damage from the heavy flak opposition. With complete disregard for his own safety, Commander Compton remained in the vicinity of the target until the damaged aircraft exited the area safely. In addition to assisting the egressing strike pilots by calling evasive maneuvers necessary for them to avoid surface-to-air missiles and heavy concentrations of antiaircraft artillery fire, he succeeded in taking seventeen pictures with a hand-held camera which provided immediate and invaluable damage assessment of this most significant target. By his superb leadership, outstanding courage and inspiring devotion to duty in the face of extremely heavy enemy opposition, Commander Compton contributed greatly to the success of a most hazardous mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

CONFER, MILTON W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Milton W. Confer, Engineman First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism on 13 February 1970 while serving in the Republic of Vietnam as an Advisor to the Patrol Officer in charge of two Vietnamese River Patrol Boats which were escorting a re-supply mission to advanced tactical support bases. The column included two heavy logistics craft loaded with seven tons of ammunition and a fuel barge with eight thousand gallons of fuel. Suddenly, both banks of the narrow river erupted in a storm of enemy rocket and heavy machine gun fire. With his patrol boat situated between the heaviest enemy firing positions and the transports, Petty Officer Confer attempted to man the after fifty-caliber machine gun but was knocked to the deck as the first of several rockets hit his boat. He then manned the midships gun and fired suppressive volleys into the enemy positions until his ammunition was exploded. Subsequently, he again attempted to man the after gun. This time he was wounded in the side by an enemy bullet, but succeeded in firing the gun until he was obliged to direct his boat alongside one of the logistics craft to rearm. While rearming, his boat received numerous heavy machine gun hits which damaged both engines and started a fire. Despite his painful wound, Petty Officer Confer began another firing run on the heaviest of the enemy positions as the boats finally neared the end of the kill zone. Only when he was relieved by units scrambled to aid his beleaguered convoy did he attend to his wound. By his great personal valor and dauntless perseverance, Petty Officer Confer contributed in large measure to the success of the mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

*CONNELL, JAMES JOSEPH (POW)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James Joseph Connell (221245135), Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant], U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from April 1968 to June 1969. Under constant pressure from the North Vietnamese in their attempt to gain military information and propaganda material, Lieutenant Commander Connell experienced severe torture with ropes and was kept in almost continuous solitary confinement. As they persisted in their hostile treatment of him, he continued to resist by feigning facial muscle spasms, incoherency of speech, and crippled arms with loss of feeling in his fingers. The Vietnamese, convinced of his plight, applied shock treatments in an attempt to improve his condition. However, he chose not to indicate improvement for fear of further cruelty. Isolated in a corner of the camp near a work area visited daily by other prisoners, he established and maintained covert communications with changing groups of POW's, thereby serving as a main point of exchange of intelligence information. By his exceptional courage, determination, and resourcefulness in this most difficult line of resistance, he reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service and the United States Armed Forces.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Wilmington, Delaware

CONNELLY, MATTHEW JOSEPH, III
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Matthew Joseph Connelly, III (703508), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism on May 10 1972 as Pilot of a jet aircraft in Fighter Squadron NINETY-SIX (VF-96), embarked in U.S.S. Constellation (CVA-64), during a major air-wing strike against an enemy rail yard in North Vietnam. As the flight leader of a section of aircraft on target combat air patrol, Lieutenant Connelly sighted a formation of approximately sixteen enemy fighter aircraft threatening the retiring strike force. Despite the overwhelming enemy odds, he engaged the numerically superior aircraft, pressing home hard-fought attacks which resulted in the destruction of two enemy planes and the dispersion of the remaining aircraft out of range of the strike force. Lieutenant Connelly's superb airmanship, courage and dedication reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

COOK, CLARENCE LEROY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Clarence Leroy Cook (703267), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving as Copilot of a search and rescue helicopter, attached to Helicopter Combat Support Squadron SEVEN (HC-7), Detachment 104, embarked aboard U.S.S. Preble (DLG-15) operating as a unit of the United States Seventh Fleet, in connection with the rescue of two downed aviators in North Vietnam on 19 June 1968. Providing exceptional support to the Pilot of his aircraft throughout this daring night rescue mission which was carried out despite extremely formidable enemy opposition, Lieutenant Cook rendered invaluable assistance in locating and maintaining references to the position of the survivors, and in utilizing his machine gun to suppress hostile small arms and automatic weapons fire which was directed at the rescue helicopter with growing intensity during four difficult descents which culminated in the successful rescue of the survivors. By his professional skill, prompt actions, and great personal valor in the face of intense enemy fire, Lieutenant Cook contributed in large measure to the success of this rescue mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

COX, CHARLES JOHN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles John Cox (641594), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism on the morning of 15 September 1968 while serving with United States forces engaged in riverine assault operations against communist aggressor forces in the Republic of Vietnam. As Commander of River Assault Division 111, River Squadron 5, Task Force 117 (TF-117), Lieutenant Cox was leading a column of assault craft down the Ben Tre River in Kien Hoa Province when the column was ambushed by a Viet Cong unit. After ordering return fire from all weapons, Lieutenant Cox exposed himself to fierce enemy fire while evaluating the tactical situation and marking beach sites for his boats. Although painfully wounded at the outset by exploding rocket fragments, he continued to issue orders and maintain tight control over his division, landing embarked troops on both enemy flanks. In order to insure the safe arrival of the medical aid boat to attend to his numerous casualties, he ordered a monitor at the aid boat's location to provide fire support, and then directed his boat and another monitor back through the ambush. As the front and rear units met in a hail of enemy fire, Lieutenant Cox ordered his two monitors to reverse course and, while running the ambush for the third time, led all four boats to a position of relative safety. He then supervised the treatment or evacuation of his wounded before submitting to much-needed attention for his own injuries. Because of his rare tactical brilliance, the infantry units were landed at optimal positions to assault the enemy from both flanks and inflict serious damage while sustaining little themselves. During two subsequent, intense engagements on 15 and 16 September 1968, Lieutenant Cox led his men with the same high degree of courage and competence. His exemplary performance of duty with consistent disregard for his own safety or his painful wounds throughout two days was instrumental in the success of an operation which inflicted numerous enemy casualties. By his inspiring leadership, great personal valor, and selfless devotion to duty, Lieutenant Cox upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

*CRAWFORD, CHARLES HUGH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Charles Hugh Crawford (6874759), Hospitalman Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism on 29 May 1967 while serving as a Corpsman with Company M, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, during Operation PRAIRIE IV against elements of the North Vietnamese Army in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. While attacking the heavily fortified enemy bunker complex on Hill 174, the lead elements of Company M were pinned down by a heavy volume of automatic-weapons fire delivered from well-prepared enemy positions, and sustained numerous Marine casualties in the initial stage of the battle. Despite the concentrated fire which made it virtually impossible to reach the wounded who were trapped only a few feet from the main enemy bunker, Petty Officer Crawford immediately ran through the deadly hail of enemy fire to reach his injured comrades. After administering first aid to the most seriously wounded Marine, and while moving the casualty to a relatively safe area, Petty Officer Crawford himself was fatally wounded. Through his fearless courage and uncommon concern for his comrades, he inspired the other Marines, and undoubtedly saved the life of the wounded Marine he treated. Petty Officer Crawford's daring actions and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Batavia, Ohio

*CRUSE, JAMES DALE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James Dale Cruse (1392506), Hospitalman, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action on 15 June 1968 while serving as a Corpsman with Company M, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Vietnam. Hospitalman Cruse's platoon was conducting a search and destroy operation near the Khe Sanh Combat base when the platoon suddenly came under intense automatic-weapons fire from a large North Vietnamese Army Force. During the initial moments of the fire fight, lead elements of the platoon were pinned down in an open area, and the two point men were seriously wounded. Disregarding his own safety, Hospitalman Cruse unhesitatingly advanced from his position of relative safety and maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain to assist his injured comrades. Upon reaching the first casualty, he efficiently rendered medical aid and spoke words of comfort and encouragement before moving forward to the other Marine casualty who lay exposed to enemy fire. While treating and comforting the second wounded Marine, Hospitalman Cruse was himself mortally wounded. By his courage, bold initiative, and selfless devotion to duty, he served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Home Town: Paducah, Kentucky

CUNNINGHAM, RANDALL HAROLD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Randall Harold Cunningham (722864), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism on 10 May 1972 while serving as a Pilot with Fighter Squadron NINETY- SIX (VF-96), embarked in U.S.S. Constellation (CVA-64), during a major air-wing coordinated strike against the strategic and heavily defended Hai Duong marshalling rail yard joining the port of Haiphong to the industrial center of Hanoi in North Vietnam. As leader of a section of F-4J flak-suppressor aircraft assigned to protect the less maneuverable and heavily loaded attack group, Lieutenant Cunningham positioned his unit between the retiring strike force and a large formation of approximately sixteen enemy aircraft attempting to intercept the bombers. Displaying extraordinary courage and brilliant aerial skill, he inspired and motivated his outnumbered shipmates in resisting several enemy assaults, and personally accounted for three of the six enemy aircraft destroyed in the fierce battle. Although his aircraft was struck by a surface-to-air missile and later burst into flame, Lieutenant Cunningham managed to barrel-roll his crippled fighter to the Tonkin Gulf where he ejected and was picked up shortly by a rescue helicopter. His great personal courage and invaluable contribution to the success of an extremely important mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals
Born: December 8, 1941 at Los Angeles, California
Home Town: San Diego, California