Navy Unit Commendation

The Navy Unit Commendation was instituted in 1944. Awarded to Navy/Marine Corps units for outstanding heroism in action or extremely meritorious service.

First Award
For exceptionally meritorious service in connection with intercept and forced landing at a North Atlantic Treaty Organization airfield of a plane carrying hijackers of the Italian cruise liner ACHILLE LAURO from 10 October 1985 to 11 October 1985. Without prior notice, Commander-Destroyer Group 8, USS SARATOGA (CV-60), Carrer Air Wing 17, USS YORKTOWN (CG-48), and Fleet Reconnaissance Squadron 2 (Combat Reconnaissance Crew 5) rapidly established total control of airways in Central Mediterranean Sea to ensure the escaping hijakers would not be able to flee from prosecution for thier act of piracy and the murder of an American hostage (Leo Klingofer). Safely, and without disruption to civil aviation, all aircraft which might have carried these terrorist were intercepted and visually identified until the hijakers plane was located. The flawless execution of the surveillance effort and intercept of the terrorist aircraft testified to thier outstanding combat readiness and consummate tactical skill. Frim and effective control of the intercepted aircraft and exceptional airmanship by escorting fighters ensured safe delivery of the hijakers to proper authority. Characterized by energetic and efficient command and control, this operation again demonstrated the potent force of the Carrier Battle Group and the resolve of the American people not to bend to the will of those who resort to acts of terror. By their professional performance, determination, and total devotion to duty, the Officers and Enlisted personnel reflect great credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of United States Naval Service.

John Lemahn
Secretary of the Navy

Second Award
For exceptional meritorious service naval operations supporting national security objectives off thee Libyan coast from 23 March 1986 to 31 March 1986. In the face of extreme provocation, which erupted into air and surface engagements, the officers and men of Task Force SIXTY coolly persevered in a highly visable naval freedom of navigation operation, ATTAIN DOCUMENT III, under the eyes of the world, and successfully challenged the unlawful Libyan claim to international waters of Central Mediterranean. Task Force SIXTY's readiness and determination dealt decisively with attacks from Libyan ground forces and active threats from Libyan naval forces which challenged American exercise of freedom of the seas during Operation ATTAIN DOCUMENT III, destroying the attacking and threatening units. The superbly planned and brilliantly executed operation decisively demonstrated the determination of the United States to operate naval forces lawfully in international waters and airspace of the world, in the face of military responce and the threats of reprisal. ATTAIN DOCUMENT III sharply reduced Libyan credibility and prestige along the North African littoral, significantly enhanced American prestige in this strategic region. By their resolution and keen combat readiness, steadfast perseverance, and unfailing devotion to duty, The Officers and Enlited personnel reflected great credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
John Lemahn
Secretary of the Navy
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