The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Robert C. Hazzard (MCSN: 505994), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade in action against enemy Japanese forces on Engebi, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands on 18 February 1944. Steadfast and courageous in the face of heavy and constant hostile mortar and machine gun fire, Private Hazzard rendered valuable service in destroying Japanese positions. On one occasion, he expertly maneuvered around an enemy machine gun to destroy the gun crew, relieving advancing troops who were pinned down by devastating fire. By his courageous action initiative and devotion to duty Private Hazzard contributed materially to the success of the operations against the Japanese and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.