For heroic achievement in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as a Corpsman with Company L, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division. On the afternoon of 30 April 1968, Company L was attacking the village of Thon Cam Vu in Quang Tri Province when the marines suddenly came under intense mortar, artillery and automatic weapons fire from a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force. During the ensuing fire fight, the Marines became pinned down and sustained several casualties. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Petty Officer Dotson repeatedly exposed himself to hostile fire while moving about the hazardous area aiding his wounded comrades. Alertly observing a wounded Marine lying in a dangerously exposed position, he fearlessly maneuvered across the fire swept terrain toward the casualty. Upon attempting to move his comrade, he sustained a serious wound and returned to his unit. Steadfastly refusing to be medically evacuated, Petty Officer DOTSON continued to render first aid to wounded Marines until he was ordered from the area. His bold initiative and sincere concern for the welfare of his comrades inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several Marines. Petty Officer DOTSON's courage, resolute determination and selfless devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

Hospital Corpsman Third Class DOTSON is authorized to wear the Combat "V".