The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Robert C. Hendrickson (MCSN: 0-41226), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding Officer of Company G, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 12 September 1951. Assigned the mission of attacking and seizing a heavily fortified hill position defended by a determined and well-armed enemy force estimated at battalion strength, Captain Hendrickson, although suffering from serious wounds received during a previous action, gallantly led his troops up the steep slope of the hill mass constituting the key hostile position. Despite an intense barrage of enemy small-arms, mortar and artillery fire, he skillfully maneuvered his platoons, launched a vigorous well-coordinated attack which neutralized successive entrenchments and then led his men in the final assault which secured the objective. His courageous leadership, professional and tactical skill and inspiring devotion to the fulfillment of a vital assignment were contributing factors in the success achieved by his battalion and reflect the highest credit upon Captain Hendrickson and the United States Naval Service.