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 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  26  May  1969  to  23  March  1970.  Throughout  this  period,   Gunnery  Sergeant  Raymond  performed  his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Initially assigned as Noncommissioned Officer in  Charge of Quality Assurance Section, he displayed  exceptional technical  knowledge and  initiative as he skillfully supervised  the complex functions of  the section,  constantly training his clerks and  technicians to maintain a high state of efficiency.  Reassigned to  the  position  of  Maintenance   Control  Chief  in   September   1969, Gunnery Sergeant Raymond worked tirelessly and with meticulous atten- tion to detail as he effectively directed the extensive and diverse mainten- ance program within the Squadron, constantly ensuring a extremely high availability  rate of combat ready aircraft.   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  throughout  his  tour  in  the   Republic  of  Vietnam,   Gunnery Sergeant  Raymond  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.