The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Fireman Jeffrey Forth Twidwell, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the afternoon of 12 July 1968 while serving as engineer on board the CG-40563 engaged in the rescue of two persons stranded on the rocks of Grays Harbor entrance, Westport, Washington. The CG-40563 maneuvered in as close as possible to the victims, but all attempts to reach the persons were thwarted by 6-foot seas . Fireman Twidwell voluntarily donned a wet suit and, equipped with two life jackets and a life ring, entered the water to assist. Despite a large wave which slammed him against the rocks causing him to lose hold on the line, he persevered and located the man and his wife, who were nearly exhausted. Calmly taking charge, he helped and reassured them while awaiting further assistance from a Coast Guard helicopter. Although the victims were torn apart several times by waves that violently tossed them from the rocks, Fireman Twidwell successfully recovered the victims each time and brought them back. Minutes before the helicopter arrived, a large swell broke carrying the woman away from the rock. Fireman Twidwell quickly retrieved her, and with one hand brought her back to the rock while simultaneously grabbing the man with the other hand and pulling him back. As the next swell broke, Fireman Twidwell managed to get the woman into the rescue basket. While she was being hoisted to safety, the man was separated. Fireman Twidwell quickly swam after him, brought him back, helped him into the basket, and then saw him hoisted to safety. Fireman Twidwell demonstrated initiative, fortitude, and courage in spite of imminent personal danger. His unselfish action and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.