Fechteler (DD 870) - Naval Cruise Book

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While on station we were ordered to steam in Condition III watches, manning a gun mount, the director and providing extra men in CIC around the clock. It was no longer a cruise ; it was business. The lookouts were required to wear protective body armor and the topside sleepers (a la the tropics) had to bunk in the heat below. As the days passed we learned more about the earlier action and our job. We were WATCHDOG, the first to meet the intruder. 37

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THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY WASHINGTON The Secretary of the Navy takes pleasure in commending UNITED STATES NAVAL TASK GROUP 77.6 consisting of U.S.S. CONSTELLATION (CVA-64), U.S.S. GRIDLEY (DLG-21), U.S.S. FECHTELER (DD-870), and U.S.S. PRESTON (DD-795) for service as set forth in the following CITATION: For exceptionally meritorious service in support of operations in the Gulf of Tonkin during the period 2-5 August 1964. By participating in immediate, determined, and successful air strike counterattack operations against the North Vietnamese tor- pedo boats and supporting facilities, Task Group 77. 6 demonstrated the firm intent of the United States to maintain freedom of the seas and to take all necessary measures in defense of peace inSoutheast Asia. The outstanding professional and technical competence and effective teamwork displayed by all members of Task Group 77. 6 in carrying out this action were in keeping with the highest tra- ditions of the United States Naval Service. All personnel attached to and serving on board Task Group 77.6 during the above period, including Commander Carrier Division 9. Commander Destroyer Squadron 19, and members of staffs, air groups, squadrons, and detachments actually present and participating in the above action, are hereby authorized to wear the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon. Secretary of the Navy ' ,.,

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