The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Seaman First Class Raymond Mural Roberts, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Acting Gun Captain on board the Battleship U.S.S. COLORADO (BB-45), in action against the enemy during operations in support of the invasion of Tinian Island in the Marianas on 24 July 1944. Seaman First Class Roberts was steadfast and alert at his new station, bringing his weapon into action against a pounding barrage from hostile shore batteries. Although seriously wounded in the face by a hail of shell fragments early in the engagement, he courageously remained at his post and fired his gun with fierce determination until a second shower of fragments caused him to fall to the deck, mortally wounded. Even then, he stoically refused help for himself and ordered his men to keep firing. By his unwavering devotion to duty and great personal valor, Seaman First Class Roberts was an example and inspiration to his comrades. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.