The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private First Class Vincent Alfonso (MCSN: 1984618), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism with Company A, First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam. On 20 July 1966 near the Dong Ha airstrip, during Operation HASTINGS, Private First Class Alfonso was serving as a machine gunner with a twelve man patrol when the squad was ambushed while taking on water at a small stream by a force of about sixty Viet Cong. In a matter of minutes enemy fire hit the group from three sides and the squad leader directed a move to key high ground in the right rear with Private First Class Alfonso designated to cover their move. Because his field of vision was extremely limited in the high grass and scrub, he courageously leaped to his feet and provided effective fire while his companions made their way to the new position. When the enemy augmented their fire with several mortar rounds, he again stood in full view of the enemy and displayed extraordinary aggressiveness and courage as he fired two hundred rounds from the hip directly into the hostile position. As armed helicopters arrived over the scene and forced the Viet Cong from cover, he continued to pour heavy and accurate fire at the enemy. When dangerously low ammunition supplies and a lack of communications forced the Marines to start withdrawing, he again displayed daring initiative and fearlessness as he exposed himself to the continuing hostile fire to cover the movement of his comrades. His valiant effort throughout was largely responsible for the toll of thirty Viet Cong killed, and enabled his unit to escape from the hazardous area without sustaining any casualties. By his extraordinary courage in the face of overwhelming odds, uncommon concern for others at great risk of his own life, and unwavering dedication to duty, Private First Class Alfonso reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.