The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal (Posthumously) to Seaman Apprentice William D. Small, Jr., United States Navy, for heroic conduct in attempting to rescue a companion from drowning in Atlantic Ocean waters at East Beach. St. Simons Island, Georgia, on 30 May 1961. When a swimming companion experienced stomach cramps and was unable to stay above water, Seaman Apprentice Small, who was swimming nearby, immediately went to his aid and attempted to bring him to shore, a distance of approximately 200 yards. Battling the strong current and high waves, Seaman Apprentice Small succeeded in towing the victim about 20 feet before becoming almost completely exhausted. He then turned his burden over to another rescuer who had come to their aid. Seaman Apprentice Small proceeded to attempt to swim to shore, but was unsuccessful. By his outstanding courage and selfless efforts, he had been directly instrumental in saving the life of a friend.