The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Charles Edwin Behan (MCSN: 0-22667), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader attached to Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-Ninth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 18 May 1945. Refusing evacuation after first-aid treatment for a shrapnel wound in the mouth received while he was moving into position for an assault on Sugar Loaf Hill, first Lieutenant Behan remained steadfast with his platoon and, despite his inability to talk, directed the movements of his platoon by arm and hand signals. Risking his life by taking an exposed position well in front of the platoon so that his men could see his signals, he led the attack through withering enemy fire and, although hit again and mortally wounded, dragged himself behind a rock and continued to convey his instructions to his men and direct the attack until he lost consciousness. By his daring initiative, staunch leadership, extreme fortitude and perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds, First Lieutenant Behan contributed immeasurably to the successful completion of the company’s mission. His courageous and unfaltering devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.