The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private First Class Gerard B. Nevle (MCSN: 335029), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a member of a Rifle Company of the Second Marines (Reinforced), SECOND Marine Division, aboard the YP-346, during action against enemy Japanese forces off the coast of Tulagi, Solomon Islands, on the night of 9 September 1942. With his ship illuminated by the enemy and hostile gunfire causing violent explosion of shells inside the magazine directly beneath his battle station, Private First Class Nevle voluntarily remained on board despite devastating enemy shellfire, manned the practically demolished bridge and set the vessel on a beaching course. Later, he gain risked his life to administer first aid to his wounded shipmates, assisting in their evacuation to protected areas. His conspicuous gallantry and courage in a situation of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.