The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Richard R. Breen (MCSN: 0-16325), 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 D, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 26 and 27 September 1950. Although painfully wounded in the arm during the first enemy onslaught, Captain Breen skillfully organized and led his men in a fierce counterattack through a deadly hail of intense hostile fire against a well-entrenched and numerically superior enemy force occupying strong defensive positions overlooking the road to Seoul. Operating with ammunition obtained from an air drop when the enemy cut off his supply line, he continued to press the attack until defensible terrain was secured and the enemy-blocked road opened. Seriously wounded a second time during the night, he steadfastly refused evacuation, continuing to issue orders, encourage his troops, consolidate his position and supervise the care of the wounded until assured that his mission had been accomplished and his company had been relieved from the line. His valiant leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds reflect the highest credit upon Captain Breen and the United States Naval Service.