The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Norman Hale Watson, United States Naval Reserve, for heroic conduct when a fighter plane crashed into a fully armed and fueled PB-4Y at the Naval Air Base on Eniwetok Atoll, 19 August 1944. Lieutenant Watson quickly organized and directed his men in fighting and controlling the fires which enveloped three PBYs and threatened other aircraft. In close proximity to exploding bombs, gas tanks and detonating .50 caliber ammunition, he led his men on this hazardous task until killed by an exploding bomb. His sacrifice was an inspiration to his men to continue their efforts until the fire was extinguished and many aircraft saved.