The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the

 

NAVY CROSS MEDAL  to

 

CAPTAIN BRUCE D. WEBB

 

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

 

Co I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division

 

Date Of Action: August 18, 1965

 

Citation:

 

For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company I, Third Battalion, Third Marines, Third Marine Division (Reinforced), in the Republic of Vietnam on 18 August 1965. Captain Webb's company was engaged in search and destroy operations against the communist insurgent forces in Quang Ngai Province when two of his platoons came under heavy small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire from a Viet Cong force of battalion size. Without hesitation he moved immediately to the point of crisis in order to maintain his company's momentum in attacking the enemy and to supervise the maneuver of his command. With full knowledge of the hazards involved and with complete disregard for his own safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire while directing the operation of his forces. Observing that the aggressive actions of the enemy threatened an adjacent unit, he requested permission to move his company into the adjoining zone of action and to attack the Viet Cong forces in the flank. In the face of heavy enemy fire he led his company across an open field to assault the enemy. As the attack progressed, the enemy fire increased in volume and accuracy, but he continued to set an example of calmness and courage. Moving from position to position, he inspired his men with his dynamic leadership and courageous fighting spirit until he fell, mortally wounded by an enemy hand grenade. As a result of his professional ability and stirring example the enemy positions were destroyed and over forty enemy killed. Captain Webb's inspiring professional ability and courageous devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the cause of freedom.