Naval History and Heritage Command

The Secretary of the Navy takes pleasure in presenting the MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATION to

USS PLATTE (AO-24)

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

For meritorious service from 4 November 1969 to 21 April 1970 in direct support of United States SEVENTH Fleet combat operations in Southeast Asia. During this period, USS PLATTE distinguished herself by providing outstanding mobile logistic support to naval units engaged in combat operations against enemy forces in the Republic of Vietnam, contributing materially to the success of these operations by transferring over 21 million gallons of petroleum products. The highly efficient manner in which all underway replenishment evolutions were conducted was indicative of the outstanding state of training and readiness of her crew. Operating under handicaps inherent in an older ship not fitted with modern automated facilities, the crew members of PLATTE met and overcame this challenge by their tireless and inspiring devotion to duty. The ship's record of sustained meritorious service contributed in great measure to the success of United States efforts in Southeast Asia where she was an invaluable sustaining element in the direct logistic support of naval forces engaged in that conflict. The dedication and professionalism of the officers and men of USS PLATTE throughout this period were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

For the Secretary,
/signed/
E.R. Zumwalt, Jr.
Admiral, United States Navy
Chief of Naval Operations