The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to First Lieutenant Edwin U. Hakala (MCSN: 0-2477), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement, zeal untiring and most successful efforts during active service in the Northern Area of the Republic of Nicaragua from 11 December 1928 until 30 June 1929. In command of a combined Marine and Nicaraguan Voluntario combat patrol First Lieutenant Hakala had many successful contact with the bandits, during which he distinguished himself by his gallantry. His courage and ability are exceptional and his operations against bandits were of great value in the suppression of banditry in this area.