The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Seaman David C. Swenson, United States Navy, for heroism on the afternoon of 3 September 1965, while serving aboard U.S.S. SHANGRI-LA (CVA-38). Finding that a shipmate had fallen unconscious to the deck of a void which contained insufficient oxygen for survival, Seaman Swenson unhesitatingly descended into the void without the aid of safety equipment and attempted to rescue the victim. Although unsuccessful because he was almost overcome, Seaman Swenson, by his prompt and courageous actions in the face of great personal risk, upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.