Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private First Class (Marine)

Unit:

Company G, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division "The Old Breed", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded on:

February 28th, 1945

Awarded for:

Operation Stalemate II

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private First Class Robert L. Bungard (MCSN: 897599), United States Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Rocket Launcher Gunner of Company G, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on enemy-held Peleliu, Palau Islands, from 15 to 19 September 1944. During an enemy tank attack on the lines of his company on 15 September, Private First Class Bungard coolly took a position directly in the face of a tank and destroyed the vehicle with his launcher. When two more Japanese tanks came crashing through the lines several minutes later, he again fired his launcher from an exposed position in front of the tanks and destroyed the onrushing vehicles. Constantly placing himself in grave danger during the next three days of fierce fighting, Private First Class Bungard accounted for the destruction or complete neutralization of four hostile pillboxes and cave emplacements and, until seriously wounded on 19 September, repeatedly advanced through deadly enemy mortar barrages and defensive cross-fires to accomplish his missions. 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 00597-45 (28 February 1945).