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

for service as set forth in the following

       CITATION:

              "For  meritorious  service  while  serving  in various  capacities with  Marine  Aircraft  Group  Sixteen,  First  Marine  Aircraft  Wing  in connection  with combat  operations against  the enemy in the  Republic of Vietnam  from 30 September 1968 to 19 October  1969.   Throughout this   period,  First   Lieutenant   Payne  performed   his   duties   in   an exemplary   and  highly   professional   manner.     Initially  assigned  as Aircraft  Maintenance  Control  Officer of  Marine  Medium  Helicopter Squadron 364, he  demonstrated  superior initiative and resourcefulness as  he trained his  crews in  correct  inspection, maintenance, and  repair procedures,    thereby   enhancing    their   individual   proficiency   and contributing  to  the  superb  aircraft  availability  rate  achieved  by  his squadron.  Assuming additional duty as Officer in Charge of an Aircraft Recovery Team, First Lieutenant Payne repeatedly distinguished himself by  his courage and composure  under fire  as he personally supervised numerous aircraft recovery operations  deep in enemy-controlled areas.  Reassigned  as Materiel  Officer of  Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463, he implemented sound  management  procedures and established a materiel  control system which  significantly  reduced stock  losses  and ensured  the rapid  replacement of critical  repair  parts and equipment.  As  a  result  of  his  diligent  and  resourceful  efforts,  the  operational effectiveness of  his unit  was greatly enhanced.  By his initiative, superb professionalism,  and  loyal  devotion to  duty, First  Lieutenant  Payne 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.