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

for  outstanding  achievement in  the  superior performance  of  his duties  in the field of 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 27 October 1968 to 20 November 1969, First  Lieutenant Rush performed his duties in an  exemplary and  highly competent  manner.   Initially  assigned as Material Control Officer,  he displayed outstanding  professionalism and initiative despite extremely adverse conditions and  the difficulties of a combat environment.  Dis- tinguishing  himself  by his consistent  high  level of efficiency,  he  enhanced the operational  effectiveness of  his unit.   Demonstrating exceptional  initiative and professional ability,  he completely reorganized his section and implemented im- proved  procedures  which  greatly  enhanced  the  efficiency  of  his  entire  unit. Working tirelessly,  he ably assisted in  the timely displacement of  his  squadron from  Phu Bai  to Marble Mountain  with no  loss of  normal  operations.  Reas- signed as Quality Assurance Officer on 30 July 1969,  he skillfully conducted test flight  inspections of  assigned helicopters  to ensure their  operational  readiness and contributed significantly to the high aircraft availability rate achieved by his unit.   As a result of  his diligence and  seemingly  unlimited  resourcefulness,  he gained  the  respect  and  admiration  of all  who observed  him  and contributed significantly  to  the  accomplishments  of  his  unit's  mission.   First Lieutenant Rush's  outstanding  professional  ability,  untiring determination,  and steadfast devotion  to duty  reflect great  credit upon  himself,  the Marine Corps  and the United States Naval Service." 

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.