The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Robert Hale Vesey (ASN: 0-12217), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 73d Infantry Regiment, 71st Philippine Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Marantae, Mindanao, Philippine Islands, on 2 May 1942, and subsequently for sacrificing his life in July 1942 in a prison camp in order to protect four of his men who had escaped. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Vesey, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.