The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade (ChC) Robert James Cronin, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Chaplain with the Third Marine Raider Battalion, 2d Marine Raider Regiment, during a landing on Puruata Island, British Solomon Islands, on 1 November 1943. After a landing had been effected, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Cronin was informed that a Marine was dying of wounds received in battle in the interior of an enemy-infested area. Although not required by duty to do so, he organized a stretcher party and without regard for his personal safety, proceeded to the side of the wounded man. He administered the Last Sacraments and remained with him until he died. His conduct and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.