The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Lieutenant Ronald Clarence Addison, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the morning of 31 December 1968 as a copilot of a Coast Guard HH-52A helicopter engaged in the rescue of a stranded hunter from Sand Island, near Bridal Veil, Oregon. Blowing snow, 65-knot winds, poor visibility, and air temperatures near zero prevented a rescue by vessel or helicopter on the first day. On the second day, despite continuously severe weather, the aircraft hovered between 10 and 50 feet above the Columbia River and air taxied to the island navigating by spotting surface aids. On the second pass, one man was sighted leaning against a tree with the other hunter in a prone position. Lacking a clear area for the hoist in the vicinity of the victims, the helicopter maneuvered approximately 60 yards upwind and hovered while Lieutenant Addison was lowered to the ground. While the pilot searched for a clearing, Lieutenant Addison was guided by hand signals from the crewman to the location and although severely handicapped by the bitter cold, ascertained that one man had died and one was suffering from extreme exposure and frostbite in both legs. He then persevered and reassured the hunter while simultaneously helping him to a nearby clearing where both men were hoisted to safety. Lieutenant Addison demonstrated initiative, fortitude, and courage in spite of imminent personal danger. His unselfish action and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.