Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Ensign

Unit:

Bombing Squadron 13 (VB-13), U.S.S. Franklin (CV-13), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

January 4th, 1945

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ensign Robert "G" Riley, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scout Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron THIRTEEN (VB-13), attached to the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in operations against a large enemy Task Force in the Northeastern Philippine Area. On 25 October 1944, in the face of continuous and intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy air opposition, Ensign Riley scored a direct hit on an enemy aircraft carrier. His courage and skill were inspiring and at all times were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

General Orders: Commander 2d Carrier Task Force Pacific: Serial 0768 (4 January 1945).