The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain (CEC) Charles Christian Heid, Jr., United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Chief Staff Officer of the THIRTIETH Naval Construction Regiment from May 1967 to May 1968. As Chief Staff Officer, Captain Heid had the heavy responsibility of directing and coordinating the staff work involved in the enormous Seabee construction program by developing procedures and policies which allowed the THIRTIETH Naval Construction Regiment to respond to a constantly changing workload, contingencies and unforeseen obstacles with a minimum of adjustment. Captain Heid displayed exceptional organizational skill, outstanding management ability and tireless devotion to duty as he undertook the urgent and difficult task of reorganization and expansion of the command structure of the Naval Construction Forces in Vietnam. This task involved the relocation of the THIRD Brigade from Saigon to DaNang, a redistribution of functions between the THIRD Brigade and the THIRTIETH Regiment, and establishment of the THIRTY-SECOND Regiment. As Chief of Staff or Commander, THIRD Naval Construction Brigade, Captain Heid was directly responsible for guiding the efforts of the Brigade Staff and the attached units in a manner that produced all the urgently required combat support facilities as they were needed. Captain Heid’s dynamic leadership manifested itself in his every effort and his performance was far above that normally expected. Captain Heid’s tireless efforts and intense drive to excellence were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Heid is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Legion of Merit to Captain (CEC) Charles Christian Heid, Jr., United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Deputy Commander, Naval Construction Battalions, U.S. Pacific Fleet and Vice Commander, Pacific Division, Naval Facilities Engineering Command, from 19 August 1970 to 31 July 1973. Captain Heid exhibited leadership and ability in coordinating the complex efforts of the two headquarters staffs and their subordinate commands, and great initiative and perseverance in supervising the deployment and operations of the Pacific Naval Construction Force; and the shore facilities planning, design, construction, maintenance and utilities operations, real estate acquisition and disposition, and family housing for the U.S. Navy in the Pacific Ocean area. Captain Heid successfully represented the Commander during his periods of travel to field activities, and proved himself to possess the experience, maturity, and dedication to act for the Commander in decision-making responsibilities affecting millions of dollars and hundreds of men. Through his inspirational leadership and devotion to duty, Captain Heid contributed immeasurably to the success of past and current programs under the purview of the Commander. Captain Heid’s actions reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Captain (CEC) Charles Christian Heid, Jr., United States Navy, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from August 1967 to July 1970.