The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant (ChC) Robert Alexander Bonner (NSN: 0-425108), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Chaplain with the Marine Artillery Regiment, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in Korea from 15 September to 27 September 1950. Lieutenant Bonner, though not required to do so, regularly visited elements of his regiment attached to front line units, courageously exposing himself to enemy small arms and mortar fire in order to encourage and minister to the men. While returning to his regiment after one visit he was seriously wounded when the vehicle in which he was riding struck a land mine. With the vehicle in flames, he risked his life to remove three wounded comrades. Despite his own severe burns and painful wounds he then walked more than half a mile to a battalion aid station to obtain medical assistance for his comrades. Only then would he consent to treatment for his own wounds. His courageous conduct and disregard for personal safety combined with his constant concern for the officers and men in his spiritual keeping were an inspiration to all who served with him. Lieutenant Bonner’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.