The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Kenneth J. Arwe, United States Coast Guard, for heroism without regard to his personal safety while serving with the U.S. Port Headquarters at Bari, Italy, on 9 April 1945. When the S.S. CHARLES HENDERSON exploded at the docks in Bari while discharging demolition bombs, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Arwe, disregarding his own safety, proceeded directly to the port to assist those still alive. At this point many fires were raging in the Nissen huts serving as quarters for the Royal Navy and all about the quays in piles of bombs and other explosives. A short distance away a gasoline cargo ship was burning, as also were backpiles of packed gasoline. Despite such hazards, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Arwe and four other Naval officers rendered assistance to the wounded and removed injured and trapped men to waiting ambulances. Later, ammunition started exploding and there was the added danger that the balance of the five hundred pound demolition bombs remaining aboard the HENDERSON would explode. Despite such perils, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Arwe carried on with his rescue work for several hours. By his courageous behavior he undoubtedly saved many lives. The heroic efforts, courage and tireless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Arwe were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.