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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Robert L. Manning (MCSN: 0-10051), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Leader of an Antitank Gun Platoon of Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 10 March 1945. Skillfully leading his gun crews in a daring flanking assault against enemy troops infiltrating former Marine positions along the west beach of the island, Second Lieutenant Manning succeeded in annihilating a force of approximately twenty Japanese aggressors and then , quickly rallying his men for further action, advanced through heavy hostile fire to place demolitions and explosives in all underground exits throughout the area, thereby preventing further infiltration. Observing a Marine officer struck down during a reconnaissance mission on 10 March, he instantly moved forward without regard for his own personal safety to aid the wounded man, but was himself mortally wounded in the attempt. By his bold leadership, cool courage and unfailing devotion to duty throughout, Second Lieutenant Manning upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    1st Parachute Battalion

    Division:

    1st Marine Division

    Action Date:

    August 7, 1942
    SPOT AWARD, Commander, South Pacific: Serial 1113 (SofN Signed December 4, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Sergeant Robert L. Manning (MCSN: 10051), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the FIRST Parachute Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, during the assault on enemy Japanese forces at Gavutu, Solomon Islands, on 7 August 1942. When the progress of Company B was retarded by heavy sniper opposition, Marine Gunner Manning, with utter disregard for his extreme danger, led a courageous attack on a heavily barricaded three-inch gun emplacement from which the deadly fire was emanating. Charging forward against the withering blasts of hostile weapons, he unhesitatingly plunged through the entrance and, while engaging the enemy in hand-to-hand combat, overpowered and killed the officer in command. Marine Gunner Manning’s daring, aggressive, and gallant conduct contributed immeasurable to the elimination of a strong Japanese position and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.