The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Coxswain James R. Peckham, United States Naval Reserve, for heroic conduct when his ship was sunk after a collision, 6 January 1944. Coxswain Peckham removed his own life jacket and placed it on a severely burned comrade, using every possible means to insure the safety and rescue of the helpless man. His prompt and gallant action saved the life of a shipmate.