Raymond Miller, Jr. (Aka: Jesse Rutherford)

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Raymond Miller, Jr. (307495), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and meritorious devotion to duty as fuse setter of Battery Four on the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of the Coral Sea on 8 May 1942. Although mortally wounded by fragments of a bursting bomb, Private Rutherford, displaying outstanding courage and a loyal determination to keep his gun in action despite his injured condition, valiantly remained at his battle station setting fuses until he collapsed on the deck. His inspiring loyalty and utter disregard for his own life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country. (NOTE: The Navy Cross was awarded to this Marine under the name Raymond Miller, though his true name was Jesse Rutherford, Jr.)

Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on October 16, 1942