The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Robert J. Brancale, United States Navy, for heroism in connection with the helicopter rescue of an 80-year-old man from the flooded Blue Earth River near Mankato, Minnesota, on 8 April 19865. The victim was unable to get into the rescue sling lowered from the helicopter to the rooftop where he was marooned. Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Brancale and another crew member waded into the frigid and swift-running waters in an attempt to reach the victim but they were forced back by the strong current and icy footing. During this time the man slipped off the rooftop and into the water. Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Brancale returned to the helicopter, which then hovered over the weakening victim. Through skillful maneuvering of the sling, Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Brancale succeeded in rescuing the near-drowning man and the other crew member, who had crossed the river upstream to aid in the rescue.