The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Robert J. Herwig (MCSN: 0-20070), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 25 May 1945. When his Company Commander was evacuated during an intense fire fight, First Lieutenant Herwig assumed command and skillfully reorganizing his men during the fire fight although he was the only remaining officer, continued the attack to capture the objective. Repeatedly braving hostile artillery, mortar, machine gun and sniper fire despite the seemingly overwhelming odds, he led his company in an attack against the fanatical enemy defending their strongly fortified cave positions and, during the night, organized and directed his men in repelling a Japanese counter attack although numerous casualties had decimated his company. His leadership, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.