The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Shipfitter Second Class Gerard J. Lau, United States Navy, for heroic conduct during a fire on Ocean County Jail, Toms River, New Jersey, on 23 August 1959. Observing smoke pouring from the jail, and hearing the prisoners screaming for help, Shipfitter Second Class Lau, who was visiting nearby, immediately raced to the building and ran to the second floor where the screams of prisoners could be heard. As he was carrying out his courageous attempt at rescue, an explosion occurred, catapulting him down a stairway and burning him severely. His heroic effort was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.