The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant, Junior Grade James F. Reed, United States Navy, for heroic conduct on 27 April 1961 while serving on board U.S.S. BRAINE (DD-630), en route from Pearl Harbor to San Diego. When a shipmate was washed overboard during heavy seas, and was unable to reach the life rings thrown to him, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Reed leaped into the treacherous waters, swam to the side of the struggling and nearly exhausted victim and kept him afloat until a rescue craft picked up both men. Demonstrating prompt and courageous action, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Reed risked his own life to save that of another.