The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Colonel Robert E. Parrott, United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Ordnance Officer of the III Marine Amphibious Force in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam from 15 August 1969 to 14 February 1970, and as Commanding Officer of the Twelfth Marines, THIRD Marine Division on Okinawa from 15 February to 3 August 1970. During these periods, Colonel Parrott performed his demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. In his initial assignment, he exercised staff control over all ordnance assets in the I Corps Tactical Zone and implemented policies and management techniques which ensured the availability of ammunition and equipment to meet constantly changing operational requirements. Working tirelessly and with meticulous attention to detail, he reviewed vast quantities of technical data, resolved many problems involving the allocation and maintenance of heavy ordnance and tracked vehicles, and provided sound recommendations concerning the establishment of stockage levels and the re-supply of combat-committed units. In addition, he supervised an extensive review of artillery, air, and naval gunfire procedures and initiated firing techniques which greatly enhanced the effectiveness of the command’s arsenal. Deploying to Okinawa as Commanding Officer of the Twelfth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, on 15 February 1970, Colonel Parrott quickly familiarized himself with his unit’s amphibious reserve mission and molded his officers and men into proficient firing teams fully capable of responding instantly to contingencies anywhere. An extremely perceptive tactician, he coordinated the simultaneous deployment of five batteries for action with battalion landing teams, directed the rotation of battalions to Camp Fuji, Japan, for training, and deployed firing teams to Korea for participation in Exercise GOLDEN DRAGON. His extraordinary initiative and determination earned the respect and admiration of all who served with him and contributed immeasurably to the accomplishment of the Marine Corps’ mission in the Western Pacific. By his leadership, professional acumen, and unflagging devotion to duty, Colonel Parrott rendered distinguished service to his country and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Legion of Merit
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Silver Star
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Legion of Merit
Service:
United States Marine CorpsRank:
ColonelAction Date:
August 15, 1969 – February 14, 1970
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Silver Star
Service:
United States Marine CorpsRank:
Colonel [then First Lieutenant]Batallion:
4th BattalionRegiment:
11th MarinesDivision:
1st Marine Division (Rein.)Action Date:
November 28 – December 3, 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel [then First Lieutenant] Robert E. Parrott, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving in the vicinity of Yudam-ni west of the Chosin Reservoir, North Korea, from 28 November to 3 December 1950. Colonel Parrott became the Commanding Officer of K Battery, Fourth Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, after his Battery Commander was captured by Chinese Communist Forces. His battery was positioned in an open valley in sub-zero temperatures and snow with the enemy firing artillery, mortar, and machine gun fire into his position throughout the period. On 1 December when friendly troops were moving off the surrounding hills, Colonel Parrott observed advancing enemy troops, and adjusted the direct laid 155-mm. Howitzer fire of his battery from his exposed position on the Chinese enemy advancing in strength, killing many of them and forcing the remainder to retreat. Fighting off many attacks and overcoming road blocks in the extreme cold, his battery was halted two and a half miles short of the Hagaru-ri perimeter to negotiate around a blown out bridge. In the freezing darkness, his battery was attacked by a large enemy force with automatic weapons and grenades. Colonel Parrott immediately directed the emplacement of defensive line. As the enemy charged the position, Colonel Parrott personally engaged them with his carbine and was wounded. Despite his wound, he prepared his men for a second enemy assault. He was wounded in the legs in this assault but continued in command until he could assure himself that the enemy would not renew the attack. Colonel Parrott’s unswerving courage, perceptive judgment, and loyal devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.