The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Seaman First Class Frank Arthur Barker, United States Navy, for heroism following the crash-dive of an enemy aircraft on the U.S.S. ACHILLES ARL-41), while in San Pedro, Philippine Islands, on 12 November 1944. Amid exploding ammunition and in complete disregard of his own safety, Seaman First Class Barker tended a fire hose to cool the magazines which prevented further casualties and spread of the fire. He then worked with a cutting torch to clear wreckage from trapped bodies despite the presence of unexploded 20-mm. shells which the torch might have set off. His heroic conduct was in accord with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.