The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal (Posthumously) to Boilerman Third Class John B. Cunningham, United States Navy, for heroism on the night of 4 September 1964 while serving as Boilerman in Charge of the auxiliary watch in U.S.S. MacDONOUGH (DLG-8) fireroom. When a fuel line ruptured and started an intense fire which forced others out of the area, Boilerman Third Class Cunningham remained at his station to secure the pumps supplying oil to the fire and to activate the steam smothering system which extinguished the flames. Only after performing these duties did he consider his own personal safety and attempt to escape. By this time, however, the heat and smoke were too intense and he was overcome. His unhesitating decision to remain at his station and extinguish the fire undoubtedly saved his ship and shipmates from further danger. His courage and selfless devotion to duty at the cost of his own life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.