The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Watertender Third Class Kenneth H. Walker, United States Navy, for heroic conduct while serving aboard the U.S.S. HENLEY (DD-391) on 3 October 1943. Blown over the side of his ship by the initial explosion during the sinking of the U.S.S. HENLEY, Watertender Third Class Walker supported an injured officer with the help of a shipmate for three hours. After being found by four shipmates he then placed the officer in a life jacket and remained with him until they were rescued 15 hours later.