The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Chief Information Systems Technician (Surface Warfare) Mark B. Banks, United States Navy, for heroism in the aftermath of Hurricane FLOYD on 17 September 1999. While on authorized leave in Winton, North Carolina, Chief Banks observed an elderly woman drive her vehicle into a flooded area of highway and he immediately attempted to stop her. Without regard for his own safety and personal well-being, he entered a rapid torrent of water well above his head as the flowing water began to sweep the vehicle away. Making his way to the elderly woman in a wooded area secluded from the un-flooded highway, Chief Banks calmly assured the woman that help was on the way and directed a rescue boat to the area. With the assistance of two other men, Chief Banks removed the elderly woman from her vehicle moments before the vehicle sank and was swept away. By his quick response and selfless courage, Chief Banks was directly responsible for saving a life under extremely hazardous conditions; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.