The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Chief Boatswain Patrick F. Powers, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious service in a duty of great responsibility while serving on board the U.S.S. Blackhawk. Chief Boatswain Powers closed a valve through which gasoline was escaping into a fire which might have resulted in serious damage to the entire ship and possible loss of life. The action of Chief Boatswain Powers was above and beyond the actual call of duty and was taken at great personal risk.