Criteria The Legion of Merit is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States without degree for exceptionally outstanding conduct in the performance of meritorious service to the United States. ... The Legion of Merit is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States without degree for exceptionally outstanding conduct in the performance of meritorious service to the United States. The performance must merit recognition by individuals in a key position which was performed in a clearly exceptional manner. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Chain of Command His shore assignments included attending, the U.S. Naval War College, Command and Staff College, Newport, Rhode Island, U. S. Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA earning a Masters in Aeronautical Engineering, CINPACFLT, San Diego, Commanding Officer, Naval Plant Representative Office at Grumman Corporation Bethpage, NY, Project Manager for the F-14 TOMCAT/Phoenix Program, Naval Air Systems command, Crystal City, VA.
Chain of Command From 1978 to 1980, Captain Endo was Commanding Officer, Navy Plant Representative Office (NPRO) at Grumman Aircraft Corporation in Bethpage, NY where he had oversight responsibility to ensure that the highly sophisticated and complex F-14 aircraft and accompanying Phoenix missile system were manufactured and delivered on-time, on-cost and of the of the highest quality providing for Naval aircrews a weapons system of unmatched combat performance. As he oversaw this multi-billion dollar aircraft and missile development and production corporation, CAPT Endo was acknowledged as the consummate NPRO officer possessing that unique blend of inspirational leadership, and an extensive background in engineering, manufacturing, contracting and quality assurance expertise --all tied together with a natural instinct to know and do the right thing.
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievem... The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or meritorious service (but not of sufficient nature to warrant a higher decoration). MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievem... The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or meritorious service (but not of sufficient nature to warrant a higher decoration). MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not suff... The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not sufficiently to justify the award of the Presidential Unit Citation). It may also be awarded to a unit that distinguishes itself by extremely meritorious service not involving combat (but in support of military operations), which renders that unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of Sout... The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of South Vietnam. The actions cited are for the same services that would have resulted in the award of a Valorous Unit Citation by the Army or a Navy Unit Citation MoreHide
Description Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria
The unit citation of the Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal was awarded certain units by the Vietnamese government for meritorious service during the period 1 March 1961 to 28 March 1974.
Description Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Description This Campaign period was from 1 July 1966 to 31 May 1967. The growing Coastal Force devoted most of its attention to amphibious raids, patrols of shallow inlets and river mouths, troop lifts, and blocThis Campaign period was from 1 July 1966 to 31 May 1967. The growing Coastal Force devoted most of its attention to amphibious raids, patrols of shallow inlets and river mouths, troop lifts, and blocking support for allied ground sweeps. For instance, during Operation Irving in October 1966, ground forces and junk units in II Coastal Zone killed 681 Viet Cong troops. In addition, the junkmen established a government presence among the fishermen and provided them with medical services and other assistance. Sometimes the Coastal Force sailors convinced Communist soldiers to desert their units.
The enemy, who often attacked the 27 vulnerable Coastal Force bases, overran the triangular-shaped fortifications of Coastal Group 15 at Cua An Hoa in July 1965 and of Coastal Group 16 at Co Luy in August 1967. Other bases, however, withstood repeated assaults. In doing so, these facilities played a part in the allied effort that denied the enemy easy access to the coastal regions.
Viet Cong mines also took their toll of the command's MLMS fleet, which worked to keep open the shipping channel to Saigon. In August 1966 and again in January 1967, enemy mines sank an MLMS in the Rung Sat. The River Force did not fully employ its strength. The political troubles of 1965 and 1966 in the Republic of Vietnam, in which high-ranking River Force officers figured prominently, damaged morale and distracted personnel from their military mission.
The navy and the army rarely launched joint amphibious assaults against the Viet Cong. Operations reflected the River Force's lack of technically skilled crewmen, the poor maintenance and repair of river craft, and the absence of inspired leadership. Usually, only half of the command's units were ready for combat action, and many of these boats were committed by the army to static guard, resupply, troop lift, or other nonoffensive duties.
The reliance on defense over offense reflected the historic Vietnamese strategy of husbanding resources until there was clear advantage over an enemy. The Vietnamese Navy's River Force sailors often fought hard and bravely, killing many of the enemy and suffering heavy losses of their own, but their valor and sacrifice was not rewarded with strategic success. ... More
Other Memories Captain Endo's operational assignments included Attack Squadron VA-95 on the USS Ranger home ported at NAS Alameda, Training Squadron VT-28, Corpus Christi, Texas, VA-215 Barn Owls on the USS Hancock, CVA-19 where he served two tours in Vietnam and later a tour in the Mediterranean flying A-4's on the USS Roosevelt.
Other Memories Captain Endo's operational assignments included Attack Squadron VA-95 on the USS Ranger home ported at NAS Alameda, Training Squadron VT-28, Corpus Christi, Texas, VA-215 Barn Owls on the USS Hancock, CVA-19 where he served two tours in Vietnam and later a tour in the Mediterranean flying A-4's on the USS Roosevelt.
Criteria The Distinguished Flying Cross may be awarded to military members who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism or outstanding achievement while participa... The Distinguished Flying Cross may be awarded to military members who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism or outstanding achievement while participating in aerial flight. MoreHide
Comments Distinguished Flying Cross
Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander No... Distinguished Flying Cross
Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Norio B. Endo, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot in a large striking force launched against two bridges in North Vietnam on 23 April 1965. After repeated failures of the other aircraft to inflict major damage to the bridge, Lieutenant Commander Endo dropped the center span on his first run, thus playing a major part in denying the enemy use of the primary supply route.
General Orders: All Hands (May 1967)
Action Date: April 23, 1965
Service: Navy
Rank: Lieutenant Commander
Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Description Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Description This campaign was from 25 December 1965 to 30 June 1966. As the war continued, the Navy continued to patrol the coasts and rivers in brown water operations. Minesweeping craft begin patrolling the LonThis campaign was from 25 December 1965 to 30 June 1966. As the war continued, the Navy continued to patrol the coasts and rivers in brown water operations. Minesweeping craft begin patrolling the Long Tau River leading to Saigon to keep that vital waterway open to merging traffic.
Navy patrol craft worked to keep Vietnamese's harbors open and safe in operation stable door. Navy helicopters called Seawolves began supporting the newly arrived Navy PBR in Game Warden missions.
On 1 January 1966, the Sea Force was renamed the Fleet Command and reorganized along functional lines. Flotilla I, comprised the submarine chasers (PC) and escorts in Squadron 11, the motor gunboats in Squadron 13, and the large support landing ships (LSSL) in Squadron 15. The minesweepers in Squadron 17 were responsible for sea patrol, inshore patrol, river patrol, and minesweeping duties, respectively. Flotilla II controlled Squadrons 22 and 24, which consisted of the Vietnamese Navy's landing ships and craft, coastal oilers, and other vessels providing logistic support.
Throughout this period, the Vietnamese Navy continued to suffer from serious deficiencies. Perhaps the greatest was the careerism and interservice political activity of many naval officers, which hamstrung coordination and cooperation in operations and lowered the morale and motivation of naval personnel. The emphasis on politics disrupted the training of sailors, many already educationally unprepared in the technical skills essential for the operation of complex vessels, weapons, and equipment.
Aside from the political factor, training in gunnery, seamanship, and communications skills was hurt by the Vietnamese stress on instruction at shore-based schools, rather than on board ships. Unfortunately, few Vietnamese sailors were released from operational duty to receive training ashore.
At the same time, the Recruit Training Center at Cam Ranh Bay, the Advanced Training Center in Saigon, and the Naval Training Center at Nha Trang, which included the Naval Academy, were hard-pressed to handle the great number of men entering the service during this period. Some relief was afforded by the training of Vietnamese officers and men on board U.S. naval vessels and in the United States. The quality of training improved somewhat as a result of these measures and the hard work of many Vietnamese sailors and American advisors.
The material condition of the navy raised even more serious concerns. Officers and men in the operational units often showed little regard for the maintenance of their ships and craft. Compounding the problem was the inability of the ship and boat repair facilities to cope with the growing backlog of work orders generated by the increased tempo of the war and the doubling in size of the navy.
The lack of skilled workmen severely hampered operations at the Eastern Repair Facility at Cuu Long near Saigon and the Western Repair Facility at Can Tho, which handled River Force and Coastal Force work. The same condition existed at the smaller establishments at Danang, Cat Lo, Qui Nhon, An Thoi, and Rach Gia, which supported the Coastal Force exclusively. A number of these repair operations barely functioned.
Other Memories Captain Endo's operational assignments included Attack Squadron VA-95 on the USS Ranger home ported at NAS Alameda, Training Squadron VT-28, Corpus Christi, Texas, VA-215 Barnowls on the US Hancock, CVA-19 where he served two tours in Vietnam and later a tour in the Mediterranean flying A-4's on the USS Roosevelt.
Other Memories Captain Endo's operational assignments included Attack Squadron VA-95 on the USS Ranger home ported at NAS Alameda, Training Squadron VT-28, Corpus Christi, Texas, VA-215 Barnowls on the US Hancock, CVA-19 where he served two tours in Vietnam and later a tour in the Mediterranean flying A-4's on the USS Roosevelt.
Criteria The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Natio... The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Nations or friendly foreign nations MoreHide
Description Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Description Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Fl... Awards and Decorations: Distinguished Flying Cross, 12 Individual Air Medals, Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and Gold Star in lieu of second Award, (of another Distinguished Flying Cross), Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. MoreHide
Other Memories He was commissioned as an Ensign and assigned to flight training in Pensacola, where he earned his Naval Aviator wings and was assigned to fly AD-6 SKYRAIDERs at NAS Alameda.
His shore assignments included attending, the U.S. Naval War College, Command and Staff College, Newport, Rhode Island, U. S. Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA earning a Masters in Aeronautical Engineering, CINPACFLT, San Diego, Commanding Officer, Naval Plant Representative Office at Grumman Corporation Bethpage, NY, Project Manager for the F-14 TOMCAT/Phoenix Program, Naval Air Systems command, Crystal City, VA.