The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Ensign James F. Brockman (NSN: 0-441867), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism in extinguishing an extensive fire on board an ammunition barge alongside the pier on Kwajalein Island on 22 October 1945, under conditions of great danger. With utter disregard for personal safety, he voluntarily and courageously fought and extinguished flames in TNT, dynamite crates and pyrotechnics, preventing an explosion which would have caused great loss of life and extensive property damage. His heroic conduct and devotion to duty were an inspiration to all with whom he served and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.