THE  SECRETARY  OF  THE  NAVY    XXXXXXXWASHINGTON

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

      For meritorious service against North Vietnamese Army Forces during Operation HUE CITY from 31 January to 2 March 1968.  Operating on fragmentary orders, the officers and men of Marine Aircraft Group THIRTY-SIX (-) overcame extremely poor weather and fanatic enemy opposition in their support of United States and Army of the Republic of Vietnam units heavily engaged with the enemy in Hue.  In the initial days of this struggle Marine Aircraft Group THIRTY-SIX (-) aircraft were the principal saviors of the beleaguered friendly bastions within the city.  In the following weeks, despite continuing monsoon weather, the Group aircrews heroically completed 9,724 sorties, rescued 1,086 casualties, transported 12,293 troops, and moved 3,023 tons of cargo.  These tasks were accomplished through maximum-performance, low-level flying techniques, and were constantly threatened by heavy enemy fire.  Although Marine Aircraft Group THIRTY-SIX (-) aircraft were damaged by enemy fire on numerous occasions, and despite over 20 attacks-by-fire on their base at Phu Bai, the Group provided sustained and heroic helicopter support for both United States and Vietnam forces at Hue.  Simultaneously the Group met other commitments throughout the I Corps area.  By their aggressive and valiant spirit, superior aeronautical skill, and gallant conduct under fire, the officers and men of Marine Aircraft Group THIRTY-SIX (-) established a new hallmark in Marine Corps aviation history.  Their indomitable actions and inspiring devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.