The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Gunner’s Mate Third Class Franklin Marian, United States Navy, for heroism while serving on board U.S.S. SHANGRI-LA (CVA-38) on the afternoon of 3 September 1965. Upon observing that a civilian shipyard employee had collapsed from lack of oxygen in a void on the ship and was apparently unconscious, Gunner’s Mate Third Class Marian descended into the oxygen-deficient void and brought the victim up the ladder to the entrance, where others pulled him to safety. Upon reaching the top of the ladder, Gunner’s Mate Third Class Marian was overcome and fell unconscious to the deck of the void. He was subsequently rescued by another shipmate. Through his prompt and courageous actions in the face of great personal risk, Gunner’s Mate Third Class Marian undoubtedly saved the life of the civilian employee.



