The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Robert Kerr Hall, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while Commanding the 3d Battalion, 164th Infantry Regiment, Americal Division, U.S. Army, in action against the enemy on 24 and 25 October 1942, at Lunga Point, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands. When a Marine battalion was under heavy attack by overwhelming Japanese forces, Lieutenant Colonel Hall ordered his troops to advance by forced march to their relief, succeeding by his skill and leadership in repulsing a Japanese regiment. The outstanding leadership and gallant actions of Lieutenant Colonel Hall during this action reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.

Hall “the Hawk” served in the North Dakota National Guard on the Mexican Boarder, France during WWI, and Guadalcanal during WWII. His Navy Cross recommendation was submitted by Lewis “Chesty” Puller NC (5) who wrote “Through rain and over difficult and unfamiliar terrain, Colonel Hall moved his troops by night at forced march, then preceded his men, and made a personal reconnaissance under heavy enemy fire. When his battalion arrived it repulsed continued enemy attacks virtually annihilating a Japanese regiment.” When the smoke cleared there were over 2,700 dead Japanese soldiers in front of the line.

Hall was one of five Army personnel to be awarded the Navy Cross during WWII. His nomination to the LOV was submitted by Mary Helm, Historian for the 24th Infantry Division Association. Hall died on January 1, 1962 in San Diego, CA.