The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Seaman Leland F. Boulet, United States Naval Reserve, for heroism in the performance of his duties while serving aboard the U.S.S. FLOYD B. PARKS (DD-884), on 11 March 1956. Seaman Boulet exhibited qualities and courage beyond that required or expected of his rate and experience. During a collision between the U.S.S. FLOYD B. PARKS and the U.S.S. COLUMBUS while operating in the Philippine Sea with Task Force SEVENTY-SEVEN, Seaman Boulet personally jumped into the sea and rescued Hospital Corpsman Joseph V. Mahurin, U.S. Navy, who had been injured and thrown into the sea between the PARKS and COLUMBUS. Even though Seaman Boulet is only an average swimmer himself, he immediately entered the water and rescued Hospital Corpsman Mahurin who was unable to save himself. Seaman Boulet’s complete disregard for his own safety in rescuing Hospital Corpsman Mahurin were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.