The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Fire Controlman Third Class Harry T. Ashby, United States Navy, for heroism in saving the life of Roy W. Hargrove, Seaman First Class, on the occasion of the sinking of the U.S.S. LCS(L)-3 #7 on 16 February 1945 in Marivales Bay, Luzon, Philippine Islands. When he saw his shipmate standing helplessly by the rail without a life jacket he induced him to jump overboard with him and then towed him around areas of burning oil and debris one hundred yards to a life raft. His heroic conduct, performed in the face of great danger to himself, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.