The Secretary of the Navy takes pleasure in presenting the

NAVY COMMENDATION MEDAL to

      HOSPITAL CORPSMAN THIRD CLASS JOHN H. SWIFT

                       UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

For service as set forth in the following

    CITATION:                                   

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.

FOR THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY

WILLIAM K. JONES

LIEUTENANT GENERAL, U.S. MARINE CORPS

COMMANDING GENERAL, FLEET MARINE FORCE, PACIFIC

V

                                  "For meritorious service while serving as a Corpsman with the

First  Marine  Division  in  connection  with  combat  operations against the enemy in

Republic of  Vietnam  from 30 June 1970  to  23 April 1971.  Throughout this period,

Petty  Officer  Swift  performed  his  duties  in  an exemplary and highly professional

manner.  Initially  assigned  with  Company G,  2econd  Battalion,  First  Marines, he

skillfully  accomplished  all  assigned  tasks  and  consistently provided his command

with  outstanding  medical  support.    Particularly  noteworthy  were  his  actions  on

31 December 1970 during a combat patrol when his unit came under intense enemy

fire and sustained several casualties. Reacting instantly and with complete disregard

for  his  own  injuries,  Petty Officer Swift skillfully maneuvered about  the fire - swept

terrain, rendering medical assistance to his wounded comrades and moving them  to

more covered positions.  Reassigned with the First  Medical Battalion on  23 January

1971, he continued to distinguish himself by his excellent performance of duty.  As a

result  of  his  diligent  and  resourceful efforts throughout his tour in the Republic of

Vietnam,  the  operational  effectiveness  of  his  unit  was greatly enhanced.   By his

initiative,  superb  professionalism,  and  loyal  devotion  to  duty,  Petty Officer  Swift

earned the respect of all who served with him and upheld the finest traditions of  the

Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service."