Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Seaman First Class

    Division:

    U.S.S. Rich (DE-695)

    Action Date:

    June 8, 1944

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Seaman First Class Robert N. Bruno (NSN: 2249336), United States Navy, for outstanding heroism in effecting the evacuation of wounded and helpless survivors from the U.S.S. RICH (DE-695) when that vessel was sunk by enemy mines on 8 June 1944, while participating in the invasion of the coast of France. Seaman First Class Bruno was a member of the crew of the ship’s motor whale boat on a rescue mission to another ship at the time of the disaster. When the boat coxswain, having recognized the need for immediate help, took the boat alongside the U.S.S. RICH, Seaman Bruno boarded the stricken vessel despite the possibility of further mining or enemy gunfire and materially assisted in the evacuation to safety of many wounded and helpless survivors, leaving RICH only when the ship sank beneath him. By his efforts, a large number of men were saved who would otherwise have perished. The courage, decisive action, and devotion to duty displayed by Seaman First Class Bruno on this occasion were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.