Adolfo Quijano, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the AIR MEDAL (Bronze Star for the First Award) to

"For heroic achievement in aerial flight while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364, Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 17 December 1968, Corporal Quijano launched as an Aerial Gunner aboard the lead aircraft in a flight of eight CH-46 transport helicopters assigned to insert elements of a Marine infantry battalion into enemy controlled territory east of An Hoa in Quang Nam Province. Arriving over the designated area, he commenced his approach to the landing zone and came under a heavy volume of hostile fire. Undaunted by the intense enemy fire, Corporal Quijano delivered suppressive .50 caliber machine gun fire upon the enemy emplacements, enabling his aircraft to land in the hazardous site, debark its passengers, and depart the area. During four additional insertions of the Marine unit, he continued to employ his weapon against the enemy and was instrumental in the successful accomplishment of the hazardous mission. Corporal Quijano's courage, resolute determination and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger inspired all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service."