The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Chief Watertender Albert Bobowiecz (NSN: 2121388), United States Navy, for heroism as Chief Watertender in charge of the forward steaming fireroom, when the U.S.S. O’BRIEN was torpedoed on 15 September 1942. When three main deck longitudinals parted from the reaction of the explosion, and while tons of water entered the fireroom through the escape hatch, he, without knowledge of whether the ship was sinking or whether the main steam liners would hold in the vicinity of the damaged longitudinals, and without thought of his personal safety, displayed exceptional calmness, leadership and courage in having the hatch promptly re-closed, and in keeping the fires going. His example was an inspiration to those on watch with him, and his devotion to duty greatly contributed to the fact that the O’BRIEN was able to clear the danger area and reach port under her own power.