Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Ensign

    Batallion:

    Torpedo Squadron 8 (VT-8)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Saratoga (CV-3)

    Action Date:

    August 24, 1942

    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 24 (December 17, 1942)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ensign Robert E. Ries, Jr., United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), attached to the U.S.S. SARATOGA (CV-3), in combat with the enemy during the Solomon Islands Campaign, on 24 August 1942. Ensign Ries, without regard for extremely heavy anti-aircraft fire, mad an unsupported torpedo attack against a Japanese Task Force with precision, vigor, and heroic determination thereby insuring that a direct hit was scored on a Japanese heavy cruiser in the center of the task force. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Ensign

    Batallion:

    Torpedo Squadron 8 (VT-8)

    Action Date:

    World War II

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Ensign Robert E. Ries, Jr., United States Navy, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot in Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), during World War II.