The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Machinery Technician Third Class John H. Alessandrini, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on 25 May 1982 when he secured a towing hawser to the 186-foot M/V WESTPRO and assisted in the tow of a disabled boat with four persons on board to safety. The WESTPRO was burning out of control and grounded on the east break wall of the Seward, Alaska boat harbor. Following numerous explosions of dangerous chemicals that caused the evacuation of the north side of the City of Seward, Petty Officer ALESSANDRINI volunteered as coxswain of the small boat from U.S.C.G.C. CAPE JELLISON [WPB-95317]. As he brought the small boat alongside WESTPRO, his crewman secured the towing hawser to the burning ship and cut its anchor cable. As CAPE JELLISON took WESTPRO in tow, Petty Officer Alessandrini observed a disabled boat with four persons on board that was in danger of colliding with WESTPRO. With complete disregard for his own safety, Petty Officer Alessandrini positioned the small boat so that a tow-line could be secured and the boat was towed to safety. Petty Officer Alessandrini demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude and seamanship throughout this incident. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.