Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Robert E. Stevenson (MCSN: 0-11643), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company A, Fourth Tank Battalion, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 20 June and 4 July 1944. Learning that two attempts to close a 400-yard gap between two infantry battalions had failed, First Lieutenant Stevenson immediately reported to the area and volunteered his services. Fully realizing the danger to his tanks, he unhesitatingly pressed forward and, penetrating the entire distance under heavy artillery and mortar fire, steadfastly maintained his position for a period of two hours, drawing all enemy fire to the area and enabling the battalions to establish contact free of Japanese resistance. Again volunteering to enter a large draw where the intensity of hostile fire had prevented a reconnaissance, he gallantly advanced and, when three of his tanks were rendered inoperative by enemy action, maneuvered so skillfully as to effect evacuation without a single casualty. By his brilliant leadership, his indomitable fighting spirit and cool courage in the face of grave peril, First Lieutenant Stevenson contributed materially to the success of these and other hazardous operations in this vital war area, and his valiant devotion to duty throughout this period was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    4th Tank Battalion

    Division:

    4th Marine Division

    Action Date:

    January 31, 1944
    Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 2788

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Robert E. Stevenson (MCSN: 0-11643), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company A, Fourth Tank Battalion, FOURTH Marine Division, in combat with enemy Japanese forces in the Kwajalein Atoll Area on 31 January 1944. Determined to land his vehicles despite the lack of boats to transport his tanks across an open stretch of water, First Lieutenant Stevenson fearlessly exposed himself to direct enemy fire as he waded across a seaward submerged reef to within a short distance of the beach on Ennugarret Island to reconnoiter possible routes of approach for his tanks. Although still under hostile fire, he retraced his steps to Ennugarret Island and, personally led his platoon of tanks across the dangerous reef. By his valiant disregard of personal danger and prompt action in a critical emergency, he made available tanks to support the attack on Ennugarret Island and to assist by fire the assault on Namur Island. His heroic fighting spirit and unswerving devotion to duty throughout this hazardous operation reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Stevenson and the United States Naval Service.