Raymon W. Herndon

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Raymon W. Herndon (264793), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving with the FIRST Marine Division, during the enemy Japanese attack on Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 13 and 14 September 1942. While engaged in a hazardous reconnaissance patrol on the southern slope of Hill 50, Private First Class Herndon was mortally wounded. With the enemy advancing rapidly on his position, and realizing that he had no chance to survive, he asked that he be left with a weapon to cover the withdrawal of his patrol to the top of the hill. His brave and loyal fighting spirit above the call of duty, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Board Serial: 648 (April 22, 1943)