The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Fireman Third Class Ernest Richard Visto, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in the Pacific War Area on 15 October 1942. While a raging fire was in progress on the gun gallery, as a member of a repair party, Fireman Third Class Visto volunteered to rescue personnel who had been trapped in dense smoke and intense heat from fires. Equipped only with a gas mask and safety line and, without thought of personal safety, he heroically led relief personnel. When the intense heat forced the relief to evacuate, he removed all obstacles to their escape and led them out through fire and smoke, after which he collapsed from exhaustion. His prompt and untiring action saved the lives of at least four men. His conduct on this occasion was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.