The   Secretary  of   the   Navy   takes   pleasure   in   presenting  the
NAVY ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL to

for superior professional achievement as set forth in the following

                 CITATION:

                                "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 from 3 November 1968 to 5 October 1969, Staff Sergeant Schmidt performed  his duties in an exemplary and highly competent manner.  As Squadron Intelligence Chief, he  displayed  outstanding initiative and  perseverance despite  the extremely ad- verse conditions and  difficulties associated with a combat  environment.  By  his consistently  high level of efficiency, he materially enhanced the operational pro- ficiency of his unit and  gained the respect and admiration of  all who associated with him as he skillfully collected, correlated, and disseminated vital intelligence da to  the commanding officer and  other  Marines of his squadron,  thereby en- suring that all personnel wee constantly abreast of the changing enemy situation and  contributing to  the safety of  tactical aircraft missions.  In  addition,  Staff Sergeant Schmidt advised and assisted  the Secret and Confidential Files Section in proper procedures for maintaining accurate control of  classified material and was instrumental in reducing the possibility of compromise of classified material and  information.   Staff  Sergeant  Schmidt's  outstanding  professional  ability, untiring  determination, and  steadfast devotion to duty  throughout his  tour  in the Republic of  Vietnam, reflect great  credit upon  himself,  the  Marine Corps, and the United States Naval Service."

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.