The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Lieutenant Colonel Charles L. Fike (MCSN: 0-3916), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States, as Commanding Officer of the forward echelon of Marine Aircraft Group TWENTY-THREE at Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, from 20 to 30 August 1942. On 20 August 1942, he arrived at Henderson Field, Guadalcanal Island, Solomon Islands with a flight of nineteen fighter and twelve scout-bomber aircraft, these being the first tactical aircraft units to be operated from this base. Despite a total lack of aircraft servicing and maintenance equipment, shortage of ground personnel, and the field being in a state of partial completion this group took up tactical operation immediately, due to the presence of enemy air and surface forces. He, as Senior Naval Aviator Present during the period 20 to 30 August 1942, organized and established the air defense of the beachhead held by our forces on Guadalcanal. During operations units under his command destroyed 21 enemy bombers, 39 “Zero” type fighters, 2 cruiser type seaplanes, 3 destroyers, 1 light cruiser, and 1 transport. The effective operation of air units during this period has been a factor of great importance in the ability of our forces to retain this base. His skill, leadership, and determination were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.