Ralph R. Bowling

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Ralph R. Bowling (250138), Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Leader of a Rifle Platoon serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 20 June 1944. Courageously leading his platoon in a vigorous assault on a highly strategic ridge strongly fortified with positions and caves from which the enemy had inflicted heavy casualties on our troops during the preceding twenty-four hours, Gunnery Sergeant Bowling continuously exposed himself to intense, persistent hostile fire to direct his men and, with brilliant initiative and aggressive determination, personally destroyed two Japanese automatic weapons and cleared out several enemy-occupied caves, thereby contributing in a large measure to the success of his platoon in the accomplishment of a vital mission. Gunnery Sergeant Bowling’s inspiring leadership, dauntless fighting spirit and valiant devotion to duty in the face of grave peril reflect great credit upon himself, his gallant platoon and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 11710 (December 15, 1944)