Gerald McGill, USCGA Class of 1965, was awarded a Bronze Star with Combat “V” for action against an enemy vessel during the Vietnam war.  The award was made by the President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson, and signed by Admiral John J. Hyland, United States Navy, Commander in Chief, U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet.  The Citation reads:

For heroic achievement in connection with operations against the enemy while serving with U.S. Naval Forces, Vietnam, and as Commanding Officer, USCGC POINT WELCOME, Lieutenant (junior grade) McGILL engaged in the interdiction of a Communist insurgent resupply ship on March 1, 1968.

Utilizing his vessel’s capabilities to the maximum extent, displaying superb seamanship and courageous and determined leadership under fire, he contributed very significantly in driving the enemy vessel ashore resulting in its subsequent self-destruction.  His magnificent use of his vessel’s weaponry resulted in numerous hits on the armed enemy ship, the suppression of return fire and interdiction of enemy attempts to offload the cargo which consisted of at least 650 small arms and large quantities of heavy caliber, automatic weapon and small arms ammunition.

The subsequent capture of this cargo deprived the Communist insurgents of sorely needed arms and ammunition.  Lieutenant (junior grade) McGILL’S courage under fire, superb ship handling and outstanding leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard and the United States Naval Service.

Lieutenant (junior grade) McGILL is entitled to wear the Combat “V”.