The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class Gilbert E. Austin (NSN: 6012322), United States Navy, for heroism following a bomb hit upon the aircraft carrier U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), on which he was serving during operations against the enemy on 19 March 1945, in the vicinity of Shikoku Island. Completely ignoring the danger to himself he remained in a burning and smoke-filled compartment to render first aid to a wounded officer and with great courage endeavored to remove the officer from the space. When finally compelled to leave by fire and smoke, he returned with a rescue party and assisted in extricating the mortally wounded officer from the burning area. His utter disregard for his own safety was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.