The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Chief Watertender John Koif, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession on the occasion of a tragic accident on board the U.S.S. CASSIN on 18 August 1937. Chief Watertender Koif, who was in charge of fireroom operations and was in the fireroom at the time of the accident, ordered the fireroom secured and all men to leave it at once. He remained behind to check the condition of the plant, thereby subjecting himself to severe burns and definitely endangering his life. His action characterizes conduct above and beyond the call of duty.