Navy Unit Commendation

The Secretary of the Navy takes pleasure in presenting the
NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION
To
THIRD MARINE REGIMENT,
THIRD MARINE DIVISION (REIN), FMF
for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

For exceptionally meritorious and heroic achievement during the period 30 April to 16 May 1968 while engaged in combat against enemy forces on the southeastern Cam Lo District, Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. Initiating counteraction against a numerically superior enemy force in the vicinity of Dai Do and along the strategically critical Thach Han River, the Third Marine Regiment demonstrated on outstandingly high degree of combat readiness and aggressiveness during a series of fiercely fought and bitterly opposed combat actions. In the face of heavy enemy small arms, mortar, and artillery fire, the Third Marine Regiment moved relentlessly forward and surmounted every obstacle to inflict over 1500 casualties upon the enemy and capture large quantities of weapons and ammunition. The success achieved by the regiment and its attached Army and Air Force units precluded the closing the Thach Han River - a communication and resupply route essential to units in the Northern I Corps area - and prevented the enemy from attacking and isolating the cities of Dong Ha and Quang Tri and their respective military complexes. By their valiant fighting spirit, efficient teamwork, professionalism, and dedication, the officers and men of the Third Marine Regiment and attached units achieved a resounding victory over the enemy and contributed essentially to United States efforts in Southeast Asia. Their inspiring performance reflected great credit upon themselves and the Marine Corps, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.

Secretary of the Navy

ADDENDUM PAGE TO THE CITATION OF THE NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION TO THIRD MARINE REGIMENT (-) (Reinforced), THIRD MARINE DIVISION (Reinforced), 30Apr68 to 16May68.