The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Fireman Ernest Spiro Cassimus, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the morning of 13 April 1969 while serving as a crew member of CG-44387 engaged in the rescue of five persons from a capsized pleasure craft in the surging surf off Clatsop Spit, Columbia River, Ilwaco, Washington. The CG-44387 had warned the crew of the pleasure craft of the approaching ebb tide, escorted her to mid-channel, and departed. Approximately 30 minutes later the pleasure craft was caught in the dangerous breakers and capsized in the 15-foot seas. CG-44387 immediately returned to the scene and located three survivors clinging to the stern of the overturned boat and two persons holding onto a gas can. Fireman Cassimus assisted in pulling three victims to safety as the CG-44387 was maneuvered in the breaking surf. When one man was observed floating away unconscious and face-down after being slammed against the CG-44387 by the breakers, Fireman Cassimus, without hesitation, jumped into the heavy seas, assisted the severely injured man, supported him until arrival of a helicopter, and then placed him in the helicopter rescue basket for evacuation. The CG-44387 subsequently rescued the last survivor and departed for shore as the helicopter hoisted Fireman Cassimus aboard. Fireman Cassimus demonstrated initiative and fortitude, in spite of extreme personal danger, during this rescue. His courage, unselfish actions, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.