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THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
WASHINGTON D. C. 20350

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the BRONZE STAR MEDAL (Gold Star in lieu of the Third Award) to

COMMANDER JOHN S. MC CAIN III
UNITED STATES NAVY

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:
For meritorious service while interned as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from December 1969 to January 1973. During this period, although under constant surveillance from his captors; he performed duties involving highly classified material in an exemplary and professional manner. Through his zealousness and ingenuity, he generated new ideas and improvised techniques greatly enhancing covert operations. Although in a hostile environment, he never wavered in his devotion and loyalty to the United States and his fellow prisoners. By his inspiring courage, exceptional skill and resourcefulness, he reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United Suites Naval Service and the United States Armed Forces.

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.

For the President,
J. William Middendorf
Secretary of the Navy