Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Action Date:

    December 1943

    Commander South Pacific: Serial 00452 (February 10, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Robert W. Attridge (MCSN: 0-11370), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Member of a Reconnaissance Patrol transported by submarine and subsequently by boat to a Japanese-held island in the Pacific Area during the latter part of December 1943. With no previous knowledge of enemy strength or the attitude of natives to the Allied Nations, and with limited means of escape, First Lieutenant Attridge unhesitatingly went ashore in the face of certain danger and, within an exceedingly brief space of time, had secured information concerning the strength of Japanese forces and their equipment and had determined the most suitable beach for future landing as well as favorable sites for bomber and fighter strips. Discovered by the enemy and in danger of being captured by a hostile party possessing superior arms, First Lieutenant Attridge fought gallantly, assisting in ambushing and killing three Japanese, wounding one and putting the remainder to flight before struggling back through heavy seas to the rendezvous with the submarine. His outstanding skill, heroism and resourcefulness in the successful execution of a vital mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.