The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade John R. Rock (NSN: 0-172747), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Officer-in-Charge of Naval Scout Boat LCT ONE HUNDRED NINETY-FIVE (LCT-195), during the initial landings on the Coast of France on 6 June 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Rock, observing that LCT-305 was in sinking condition, with the Officer-in-Charge severely wounded, directed the evacuation of the stricken officer and leaving his own ship in command of his assistant, boarded the sinking craft to successfully beach it, and discharge its load. He further displayed courage and heroism when after the craft was hit and completely disabled by enemy shells, he swam ashore for medical assistance, despite the handicap of a broken arm sustained as a result of the concussion from enemy fire. The remarkable display of disregard for his own safety in devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.