The Secretary of the Navy takes pleasure in presenting the

NAVY COMMENDATION MEDAL to

                                    PFC WILLIAM E. POWERS

                    UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

For service as set forth in the following

    CITATION:

            "For heroic achievement in connection with operations against

the  enemy  in  the  Republic  of  Vietnam  while  serving  as  a  Radio  Operator  with

Company  E, Second Battalion, First  Marines, First Marine Division.  On the morning

of 15 March 1969, Private First Class Powers' squad was conducting a combat patrol

south  of  DaNang  when  two  enemy  explosive  devices  were  detonated,  seriously

injuring  five  Marines. Although  having  received  fragmentation  wounds in the arms

and  legs,  he steadfastly refused  medical  attention  and  remained  at  his  radio  to

skillfully  direct  the  emergency  medical evacuation helicopter to his squad's position.

Leaving his radio  after  the  helicopter  had  landed  in the clearing, he refused to be

evacuated until he had ensured that the more seriously wounded Marines were safely

aboard  the  helicopter.  By  his  initiative,  professional  competence and unwavering

devotion  to  duty,  Private  First  Class  Powers  upheld  the  finest  traditions  of  the

Marine Corps and of the United States 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

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