The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Gunner Edwin J. R. Bockelman (NSN: 405960), United States Navy, for a voluntary act of heroism and bravery in connection with diving operations from the U.S.S. PENGUIN on 7 May 1945. Diving operations were commenced a few hours after the sinking of a German submarine about five miles east of Sandy Point, Block Island. The purpose of these dives were to procure information useful to Naval Intelligence. Entry into the submarine had not been gained when Gunner Bockelman, knowing he was the smallest diver aboard, volunteered to enter a conning tower hatch. Without regard for his personal safety and in the face of great danger to himself, due to the limited space and presence of unexploded depth charges, he completed the dive in spite of great difficulties and was able to obtain vital information. The courageous action of Gunner Bockelman, while exposed to constant danger, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.