The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Second Lieutenant George Codrea (MCSN: 0-8662), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Platoon Commander in a Rifle Company of the Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese armed forces at the Tenaru River, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 21 August 1942. When it became necessary to reinforce the firing line during the heaviest fighting against a Japanese landing force of about 700 men, Second Lieutenant Codrea, coolly and with complete disregard for his own safety, placed each man, individually, in a position to deliver the most effective fire. Though wounded twice during the battle, he remained on duty with his platoon until ordered to retire to the aid stations. His outstanding leadership, determination and inspiring fortitude throughout the engagement were largely instrumental in stopping the most serious enemy threat.