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

for service as set forth in the following

           CITATION:

              "For meritorious service while serving with  the III Marine Amphibious Force in connection with  combat operations against  the enemy in  the Republic of  Vietnam  from  6 February to  16 September 1968.  Throughout  this  period, Sergeant Arrotta, then  a Corporal, performed  his duties in  an  exemplary  and highly professional manner.  Assigned to Company I,  Third Battalion,  Twenty- Sixth Marines  as a Forward Air Controller while  that unit was  located on  Hill 881 South during  the siege of  the  Khe Sanh Combat Base,  he  repeatedly  dis- tinguished  himself  by  his  courage  and  composure  under fire.  On numerous occasions,  he fearlessly  exposed  himself to enemy  artillery and mortar  fire  in order  to direct  Marine tactical  air strikes on hostile  positions  and  coordinate vitally needed helicopter resupply and medical evacuation missions.   As a result of  his  diligent  and  tireless  efforts,  the  combat  effectiveness  of  his  unit was greatly enhanced.  By his initiative, superb technical skill and steadfast devotion to duty,  Sergeant Arrotta earned  the respect and admiration of all who  served with him and upheld the finest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service."
 

The Combat Distinguishing Device is Authorized.