The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Motor Machinist’s Mate First Class Wilbur Bastion Larson, United States Navy, for heroic conduct as a member of Motor Torpedo Boat THREE HUNDRED FORTY-SEVEN (PT-47), conducting a patrol off the North Coast of New Britain Island on 21 March 1944. When friendly planes unintentionally attacked his craft, leaving it in a sinking condition, Motor Machinist’s Mate First Class Larson remained steadfast and calm despite the extreme danger, assisting a wounded shipmate over the side to safety. His initiative and indomitable courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.