In the name of the Secretary of the Navy, the Commanding

General, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific takes pleasure in presenting the

NAVY COMMENDATION MEDAL to

First Lieutenant Richard Hayden Black

   UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS RESERVE

For service as set forth in the following

    CITATION

               “For meritorious service while serving as a Forward Air Controller with Headquarters and Service Company, Second Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam from 11 February to 17 June 1967. During this period, First Lieutenant BLACK consistently performed his demanding duties in an exemplary manner. As the only air officer attached to an infantry company which was occupying a remote combat outpost at Nui Lac Son, he effectively coordinated and controlled all air operations required by the isolated unit in support of combat operations against the enemy. With meticulous attention to detail, he devised and improved techniques which ensured the timely delivery of supplies and fire support despite adverse conditions. Working tirelessly, he ably trained and supervised his men and, largely due to his leadership and personal example, instilled in them an espirit de corps which greatly enhanced the combat readiness of his team. On numerous occasions, he accompanied combat patrols on missions deep into enemy controlled territory, completely disregarding the danger to himself from enemy mines, snipers and mortar fire, in order to provide maximum utilization of close air support. At dusk on 2 March 1967, First Lieutenant BLACK's company suddenly came under intense enemy mortar fire and he immediatly requested air support. Upon the arrival of supporting aircraft, he skillfully coordinated air strikes and artillery fire which quickly silenced the enemy mortars. On 9 May 1967, when a mine was inadvertently detonated near the Company Command Group, two Marines were killed and four others were wounded, including First Lieutenant BLACK. With calm presence of mind, he personally called for medical evacuation helicopters. Despite his painful injury, he directed the aircraft into the landing zone, steadfastly refusing to be extracted until the other wounded were treated and he was assured that his skills were no longer required. His diligence and professionalism were an inspiration to all who served with him and were instrumental in the accomplishment of his unit's mission. By his inspiring leadership, professional competence and loyal devotion to duty throughout, First Lieutenant BLACK upheld the finest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service”

First Lieutenant BLACK is authorized to wear the Combat "V".

        FOR THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY,

V. H.  KRULAK

LIEUTENANT GENERAL, U. S. MARINE CORPS

COMMANDING

V

Richard Hayden Black