The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Aviation Structural Mechanic Third Class Timothy Russell Durbin, United States Navy, for heroism while serving aboard U.S.S. CORAL SEA (CV-43) in the South China Sea on 8 January 1980. Petty Officer Durbin was flying as Second Crewman of the afternoon plane-guard mission when the crew of an A-6 Intruder bomber was forced to eject immediately after being catapulted. The helicopter crew quickly and professionally rigged for rescue. To expedite the rescue and with complete disregard for his own safety, Petty Officer Durbin entered the water utilizing the jump method. The Bombardier/Navigator was definitely in distress and in imminent danger of drowning. Without surfacing for much needed air, Petty Officer Durbin struggled fervently to free the submerged and severely entangled survivor from the parachute that was pulling him to the bottom. He withstood the flailing actions of a confused and panic-stricken man, professionally bringing the situation under control and successfully completing the rescue. By his perseverance and courageous efforts in the face of great personal risk, Petty Officer Durbin undoubtedly saved the Bombardier/Navigator from drowning; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.