The Secretary of the Navy takes pleasure in presenting a gold star in lieu of the second NAVY COMMENDATION MEDAL to

for service as set forth in the following

       CITATION:

              "For    service  while  serving  with  Marine  Medium Helicopter Squadron  364,  Marine Aircraft  Group  Sixteen,  First  Marine  Aircraft Wing  in connection  with combat  operations  against  the  enemy  in the Republic of Vietnam from 27 April 1969  to 13 March 1970.  Throughout this period,  Gunnery Sergeant  Horn performed  his duties  in an exemp- lary  and  highly   professional  manner.    Initially  assigned   as  Quality Assurance  Chief of  the Maintenance Section,  he  displayed  exceptional technical  knowledge and initiative as  he skillfully supervised  the critical task of inspecting completed maintenance to ensure  that a constant high standard of performance was  maintained.   Reassigned  as  Maintenance Chief in January 1970,  Gunnery Sergeant Horn distinguished himself by his  outstanding  leadership  and   meticulous  attention  to  detail  as  he directed  the complex and extensive  repairs to the  Squadron's transport helicopters.   Working  tirelessly,   he  personally  trained  numerous  less experienced  mechanics and  technicians to achieve a greater state of pro- ficiency,  thereby contributing to  the success of the Squadron's mainten- ance  program.    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,  Gunnery Sergeant  Horn earned  the  respect of  all  who served  with  him  and  upheld  the  finest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service."

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.