The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to First Lieutenant Oral R. Swigart, Jr. (MCSN: 0-50666), United States Marine Corps, 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, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 24 and 25 July 1953. Assigned the mission of defending a vital sector of the main line of resistance, Captain Swigart carried out a thorough reconnaissance to ensure that his men and automatic weapons were disposed to the best advantage. Although painfully wounded and rendered unconscious when the position was subjected to an intense mortar and artillery barrage which was followed by an attack by an overwhelming enemy force, he quickly reassumed command of his unit when he regained consciousness, alerted his platoon commanders of the impending attack and, after repelling the enemy, immediately prepared for another encounter. Through his remarkable leadership, a second vicious enemy attack on his position was also repulsed. Despite his painful wounds, he continued to supervise operations throughout the night and constantly exposed himself to intense enemy artillery, mortar and small-arms fire in order to direct his men effectively and to offer them words of encouragement. By his inspiring leadership, marked fortitude and courageous initiative, Captain Swigart contributed in large measure to the successful defense of his position and to the accomplishment of the battalion’s mission. His personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.