The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Wayne T. Hildebrand, United States Navy, for heroic conduct on the night of 14 December 1960 while serving on board the U.S.S. HYMAN (DD-732) in the Mediterranean Sea Area. With his vessel engaged in rescuing a downed naval aviator from the extremely rough and wintry waters of the Mediterranean, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hildebrand observed that the struggling pilot was unable to release himself from his parachute which, acting as a sea anchor, created sufficient drag to force the victim to release his grip on the life line. Quick to act, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hildebrand dived from the forecastle of the ship into the hazardous five-foot seas, swam to the side of the drowning aviator, and succeeded in keeping him afloat until the ship maneuvered into position and lifted both men to safety. Through his prompt and courageous actions in the face of grave personal risk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hildebrand was directly responsible for saving the life of a fellow officer. His inspiring conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.