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

                           CORPORAL THOMAS D. LEARY III

                      UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

For outstanding achievement in the superior performance of his duties in the field of leadership achievement as set forth in the following

    CITATION:

               “While serving with company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam from 20 December 1967 to 29 December 1968, Corporal Leary performed his duties in an exemplary manner. Initially assigned as a Rifleman, 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 and combat readiness of his unit. Reassigned as a Fire Team Leader, he skillfully maneuvered his men during engagements with the enemy. On one occasion during an operation in Quang Nam Province, he directed a helicopter into a nearly inaccessible landing zone in order to evacuate seriously wounded Marines. Subsequently reassigned as a Radio Operator, he continued to distinguish himself in the performance of his duties as he provided outstanding communications support to his command. 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 Leary's leadership, outstanding professional ability and steadfast devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself, the Marine Corps and the Naval Service."       

                               H. W. BUSE, JR.

                  LIEUTENANT GENERAL, U. S. MARINE CORPS

     COMMANDING GENERAL, FLEET MARINE FORCE, PACIFIC

FOR THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY,

V

Corporal Leary is authorized to wear the Combat "V"