The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Ensign Robert Charles Kerr (NSN: 0-363685), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving on board the Light Cruiser U.S.S. BIRMINGHAM (CL-62), while participating in the salvage and rescue operations of the U.S.S. PRINCETON in the face of enemy attack during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 24 October 1944. Ensign Kerr was seriously wounded when a terrific explosion in the magazine section of the Princeton hurled him from his position on the starboard catapult onto the steel hangar deck. The explosion killed or wounded half of the BIRMINGHAM’s crew. Ensign Kerr steadfastly refused medical attention, insisting that others in the area be cared for first. Although still conscious and suffering intense pain, he obtained materials for a tourniquet and after applying it to his injured leg, injected himself and two other casualties with morphine syrettes. Again refusing assistance, he requested that the others be evacuated below decks and, remaining in the danger area for more than an hour while his ship was under constant aerial attack, bravely instructed others in the administration of first and comforted the wounded and the dying. He succumbed to his wounds on the following day. Ensign Kerr’s outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.