The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Motor Machinist’s Mate Second Class George C. Betz (CGSN: 546462), United States Coast Guard Reserve, for heroism as a member of the crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter 83428 in rescuing survivors off the coast of France on 7 August 1944. On this date the cutter proceeded to the scene of the sinking of H.M.S. AMSTERDFAM, a hospital ship. During the rescue operations, Motor Machinist’s Mate Second Class Betz went over the side with one of the pneumatic life rafts and began gathering the seriously wounded on to the raft, making them as comfortable as possible until such time as they could be taken aboard the ship. He remained in the water during the entire operation which lasted an hour and a half, and the saving of many lives can be attributed to his meritorious performance of duty. The courage, disregard of personal safety and outstanding performance of duty displayed on this occasion were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.