The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal (Posthumously) to Chief Machinist’s Mate Charles Erastus Brewer (NSN: 2683713), United States Navy, for heroism at the risk of life. On 6 June 1944, Chief Machinist’s Mate Brewer helped save the lives of Ensign J. Roberts and other shipmates after the sinking of the U.S.S. CORRY (DD-463) which was shelled by German shore batteries off the Normandy Coast. A specific instance of bravery shown by Chief Brewer was in saving the life of Ensign J. Roberts who had been wounded by shrapnel while on a raft after the shelling of the CORRY. Chief Brewer tied a tourniquet around Ensign Roberts’ arms, which had been penetrated by shrapnel and held him on the raft until rescued. Without Chief Brewer’s assistance he would have been swept off the raft due to his wounds and weakened condition.