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James
R.
Roosevelt
December 23, 1907

–

August 13, 1991

James Roosevelt was the oldest son of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Despite his father’s high position and “flat feet” that could have exempted him from military service (he wore soft-soled shoes instead of boots), James Roosevelt repeatedly led Marine Corps Raiders in dangerous actions far beyond friendly lines. His brothers also all served in combat theaters, one of them earning a Silver Star. He was commissioned in the Marine Corps through the NROTC program at Harvard University where he graduated in 1930. He retired as a United States Marine Corps Brigadier General in 1959, following which service he was elected to the United States Congress from California, serving there from the 84th through the 89th Congresses.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel

    Division:

    27th Infantry Division, U.S. Army

    Action Date:

    November 20 – 23, 1943
    Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces, Central Pacific Area, General Orders No. 55 (1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Lieutenant Colonel James R. Roosevelt (MCSN: 0-5477), United States Marine Corps, for gallantry in action at Makin Atoll, Gilbert Islands, 20 to 23 November 1943. Attached as an observer to the units of the 27th Infantry Division which effected the landing on Makin Atoll, Lieutenant Colonel Roosevelt voluntarily sought out the scenes of the heaviest fighting. Throughout the three-day period, he continually accompanied the leading elements of the assault, exposing himself to constant danger. His calmness under fore and presence among the foremost elements of the attacking force was a source of inspiration to all ranks.

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Major

    Batallion:

    2d Marine Raider Battalion

    Action Date:

    August 17 & 18, 1942
    SPOT AWARD (October 1942)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Major James R. Roosevelt (MCSN: 0-5477), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Executive Officer, and second in command of the SECOND Marine Raider Battalion, during the Marine Raider Expedition against the Japanese-held island of Makin in the Gilbert Islands on 17 and 18 August 1942. Risking his own life over and beyond the ordinary call of duty, Major Roosevelt continually exposed himself to intense machine-gun and sniper fire to ensure effective control of operations from the command post. As a result of his successful maintenance of communications with his supporting vessels, two enemy surface ships, whose presence was reported, were destroyed by gun fire. Later during evacuation, he displayed exemplary courage in personally rescuing three men from drowning in the heavy surf. His gallant conduct and his inspiring devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.