The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Gunner’s Mate First Class Benjamin L. Kruser, United States Navy, for heroism on 6 April 1914 at Key West, Florida. Gunner’s Mate First Class Kruser jumped overboard from U.S.S. PAULDING to rescue a shipmate who had fallen overboard and was in danger of drowning in a strong-running tide. In risking his life to save that of a shipmate, Gunner’s Mate First Class Kruser displayed a high degree of courage and initiative.