Robert M. S. Slater

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert M. S. Slater (0-99864), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a Staff Advisor, U.S. Marine Corps, in the Republic of Vietnam from 5 to 11 January 1968. Lieutenant Slater, at the risk of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, volunteered to undertake a hazardous mission into enemy territory to gather vital intelligence. On 6 January he was inserted for the first time and successfully brought back essential intelligence. Due to the success of his first mission, he volunteered to go back a second time for additional information. With full knowledge of the continuing possibility of imminent capture or death, he returned again into enemy territory and brought back a great amount of invaluable intelligence. With great courage, he returned for a third and final mission. Although his chances for survival were slim he again successfully brought back the vitally needed intelligence. Lieutenant Slater’s extraordinary heroism resulted in extremely heavy materiel damage and personnel casualties to the enemy and led to the saving of many American and South Vietnamese lives, both military and civilian. His courageous actions and loyal devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.