PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION

to
DELTA RIVER PATROL GROUP

CITATION:

For exceptionally meritorious and heroic service from January 31 to 9 April 1968 while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in armed conflict with Viet Cong forces during the Tet (Lunar new Year) offensive and counteroffensive campaigns in the Mekong Delta region of the Republic of Vietnam. In countering and surprising the enemy's region-wide offensive of the Tet period, units of Delta River Patrol Group distinguished themselves by their unremitting deeds of valor and service. The Mekong Delta complex teemed with Viet Cong activity throughout this period, which, if unchallenged, would have caused great political, military, and economic disruption to the government of Vietnam. When the major cities and government outposts were assaulted, the Delta River Patrol Group reacted decisively, utilizing its combat potential against enemy forces of overwhelming superior numbers, resulting in the reduction of the enemy activity to token showings. Highlighted by combined SEAL and River Patrol Boat efforts in the saving of Chau Doc, and the decisiveness of River Patrol Boat and Seawolf helicopter fire support at Ben Tre and Vinh Long, the readiness and teamwork of all elements was a classic example of the professional naval response to a dangerous enemy threat. Thwarting the Viet Cong at every opportunity, the Delta River Patrol Group's daring and beleaguered outposts, established control on the main rivers, and provided moral strength to the indigenous friendly forces and civilian populace. The Patrol Group's many vital contributions provided the spark that enabled combined allied forces to defeat the Viet Cong Tet offensive in the Mekong Delta region. The solidarity of purpose, tireless efforts, and intrepid actions of the officers and men of Delta River Patrol Group were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Richard Nixon

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