The Secretary of the Army of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Army Commendation Medal with Combat “V” to Warrant Officer One (WO-1) Robert J. Destatte, United States Army, for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer Destatte distinguished himself by valorous actions on 17 February 1970, while serving at the Mai Loc Special Forces Camp. When a Light observation helicopter was fired upon near the camp, Warrant Officer Destatte and a platoon of Civilian Irregular Defense Group mounted armored personnel carriers and deployed toward the area of contact. Although without communications, Warrant Officer Destatte led his element along a major trail network until they came upon an unknown size enemy force. Warrant Officer Destatte immediately deployed his men and with complete disregard for his own safety, led the assault on the enemy positions. Because of the intensity of the assault the enemy was forced to withdraw. Warrant Officer Destatte’s courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.