The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Dave Edwards, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the afternoon of 1 February 1979 when he assisted in the rescue of two men from drowning in the treacherous surf off the Siletz River Bar, Oregon. Shortly after crossing the bar into the Pacific Ocean, the 24-foot dory the two men were in began to break up. After transmitting a Mayday, they were forced to abandon the vessel. Upon notification of the sinking, Petty Officer Edwards, and the Officer-in-Charge of U.S. Coast Guard Station Depoe Bay, Oregon, loaded the station’s rubber Zodiac on a trailer and hastily proceeded to the scene. Petty Officer Edwards then assisted in launching the Zodiac into the shallow water of Siletz Bay. Following directions from the beach party on a portable radio, the Zodiac was skillfully maneuvered through three lines of breaking eight-foot surf to the debris from the battered dory. The cold and exhausted men were quickly located and recovered from the water. While the victims were being pulled on board, the Zodiac’s motor stopped. As the Zodiac drifted at the mercy of the relentless breakers, several attempts were made to start the motor. After several anxious moments, the motor was restarted and the little craft was maneuvered back through the pounding surf to the beach where the victims were transferred to an awaiting ambulance. Petty Officer Edwards demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.