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

CORPORAL BRUCE M. PILCH

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

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 the 81mm Mortar Platoon, Headquarters and Service Company, Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, Ninth Marine Amphibious Brigade in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam from 5 November 1967 to 23 November 1968, Corporal Pilch performed his duties in an exemplary manner. As Supply Noncommissioned Officer, he displayed outstanding professionalism and initiative despite extremely adverse conditions and the difficulties of a combat environment. Distinguishing himself by his consistently high level of efficiency, he materially enhanced the operational effectiveness of his unit. Exhibiting exceptional professional ability, he provided outstanding supply support for the platoon while participating in fifteen major combat operations including Operations Pegasus, Scotland II and Meade River. Working tirelessly, he ably provided combat essential supplies and equipment to the combat committed elements of 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 accomplishment of his unit’s mission. Corporal Pilch’s outstanding professional ability, untiring determination and steadfast devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself, the Marine Corps and the Naval Service.”

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.

FOR THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY,

H. W. BUSE, JR.

LIEUTENANT GENERAL, U. S. MARINE CORPS

COMMANDING GENERAL, FLEET MARINE FORCE, PACIFIC