Robert J. Hund

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert J. Hund (458775), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company I, Third Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 17 June 1944. Armed with a bazooka during an intense hostile counterattack against our tanks in the hours before dawn, Private First Class Hund worked his way from his position into a front line area to assist in repelling the assault, scoring direct hits on a Japanese tank with his accurate gunfire. Although subjected to a continuous barrage from hostile machine guns, he courageously crawled into an open field to secure a better firing position and, advancing against an approaching tank, registered several well-placed rounds. While preparing to turn his weapon on a third tank which was moving into the area, he suffered severe wounds. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 6112