PAUL KARL CHRISTENSEN was awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Machine Gunner with the 3rd Combined Action Group, III marine Amphibious Force in connection with operations against enemy forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 19 November 1967. Corporal (then Lance Corporal) Christensen was serving with a 12-man combat patrol, along a known enemy route, when the patrol surprised and engaged a force of approximately fifty Viet Cong. He quickly placed his machine gun into action mortally wounding several Viet Cong and forced the remainder to withdraw. When the patrol leader and another Marine went forward to search the battle area to capture wounded enemy soldiers and weapons, they were taken under intense enemy automatic and rocket fire which wounded several Marines. With complete disregard for his own safety, Corporal Christensen moved through the hostile fire to deliver a heavy volume of fire on the enemy position. Rallying his men, he quickly established a base of fire and courageously advanced into the open area to assist the patrol leader to a covered position. Quickly assuming command of the patrol, he integrated a defensive perimeter and requested that a reactionary force be dispatched to reinforce his patrol. He called in illumination fire and a medical evacuation helicopter to evacuate the wounded. As the battle ensued he repeatedly exposed himself to the intense enemy fire to encourage his men and adjust their fire. When the relief force arrived, he directed them into position and led an assault into the enemy position, routing the enemy force. By his bold initiative, gallant fighting spirit and loyal devotion to duty, Corporal Christensen reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

Mr. Christensen has been a member of the Legion of Valor since 1983.