The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant James Bernard Back (NSN: 0-715747), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism on 28 February 1968 while serving as the Regimental Surgeon with the First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Vietnam. When a Marine was admitted to the regimental aid station suffering from serious wounds sustained when his tracked vehicle came under intense B-40 rocket fire, Lieutenant Back, upon treating the casualty, alertly observed a large, cylindrical, foreign object imbedded in the casualty’s lower right side. Unable to identify the object, he requested assistance and was informed the projectile appeared to be an M-79 grenade. Fully aware of the dangers involved, Lieutenant Back operated and found a colored metal cylinder. He resolutely proceeded with the delicate operation without the aid of body armor and despite the danger of the device exploding upon the slightest movement. Displaying extraordinary courage and exceptional professional competence, Lieutenant Back continued his task until he had completely freed the object and carried it outside for disposal. Upon closer examination, it was revealed that the wound had been caused by the fuse of a B-40 rocket, an extremely sensitive and highly explosive device. By his bold initiative, outstanding professional skill, and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Lieutenant Back upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.