The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Chief Motor Machinist’s Mate John Jasper Bryant (NSN: 6402860), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism in rescuing an injured man from an exploding airplane on the Island of Tinian on the night of 20 May 1945. A B-29 loaded with two thousand pounds of highly explosive mines crashed in flames while taking off, and one member of the crew was blown clear, the upper portion of his body aflame. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Chief Bryant ran to the side of the injured man. As he approached the man, one of the mines exploded as he reached him, the air was filled with burning gasoline, bursting shells and exploding mines. Although suffering from extensive burns, Chief Bryant never ceased in his efforts to aid the injured man, and remained with him although in great pain, until medical treatment arrived. His heroism and valor in the face of great personal danger were outstanding, and his services and conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.