RONALD ARTHUR LAY

" For heroic achievement in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as a Crew Chief with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364. On 22 July 1966, Staff Sergeant LAY exhibited bold initiative and fearless disregard for his own safety during a mission in which his aircraft was assigned to insert a reconnaissance team on a ridgeline in Quan Tin Province. As the team members in the lead plane debarked, a land mine was detonated and several casualties were sustained. As his aircraft landed to rescue the stricken men, Staff Sergeant LAY courageously jumped from the cabin and hurried to the side of the first casualty. Undaunted by the knowledge that the area was mined, he assisted in lifting the wounded man into his aircraft, then helped another Marine to his feet and guided him aboard. Staff Sergeant LAY's daring effort and unselfish concern for the welfare of others under extremely dangerous conditions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service".

Staff Sergeant LAY is authorized to wear the Combat "V".

                                        FOR THE PRESIDENT,

                                                V. H. KURLAK