The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal (Posthumously) to Watertender Second Class Irwin Alfred Blender (NSN: 6282916), United States Naval Reserve, for conduct above and beyond the call of duty while serving as “Oil King” aboard the U.S.S. PARROTT (DD-218) at the time of the collision between that vessel and the S.S. JOHN MORTON, on 2 May 1944. Immediately prior to the collision, Watertender Second Class Blender, hearing the emergency “full back” bell in the forward engine room, rushed to the forward fireroom, to see if oil suction had been lost. Suction had not been lost, but Watertender Second Class Blender acted on his own initiative without orders from any superiors, and as a result of his actions, lost his life. His complete disregard for his personal safety and his courageous action in entering the fireroom just prior to the collision, was an act in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.