The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant (MC) Stephen L. Stigler, United States Naval Reserve, for distinguished service in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage, and disregard of personal danger while serving as Junior Medical Officer of the landing forces of the SECOND Marine Raider Battalion against Japanese-held Makin Island, on 17 and 18 August 1942. Lieutenant Stigler braved intense enemy fire to evacuate helpless and injured on the front lines, personally carrying many of the wounded to positions of greater safety, thereby enabling himself to administer early and effective aid. During evacuation operations, he swam into the surf and rescued those unable to aid themselves. After returning to his ship, Lieutenant Stigler performed several major operations under most difficult circumstances and, as a result of his skillful and tireless efforts, he succeeded in bringing all of his cases back to base in excellent condition. By his courage, determination, and untiring devotion to duty, Lieutenant Stigler saved many lives. His professional ability, courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service.