The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Radioman Thomas J. Bretscher (NSN: 4341835), United States Navy, for heroism at the risk of his own life in saving the life of another in the service while serving aboard the U.S.S. GADALUPE (AO-32) on 30 January 1955. Radioman Bretscher exhibited outstanding qualities beyond that required or expected of his grade or experience. On 30 January 1955, while the U.S.S. GUADALUPE was anchored outside the harbor of Keeling, Formosa, in rough seas, a heavy current and cold weather, Radioman Bretscher unhesitatingly dived overboard to rescue a shipmate who had fallen into the water. Fifteen minutes elapsed before the men were rescued by the lifeboat crew, at which time they had drifted about one-half mile from the ship. Radioman Bretscher’s action was directly responsible for the saving of the other man’s life. Radioman Bretscher’s quick thinking, skill, and heroic actions have been an inspirational example to the entire crew, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.