The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Seaman John A. Kallelis, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the day of 13 October 1982 while serving as boat crewman on the Motor Life Boat (MLB) CG-44315 engaged in search and rescue operations at the entrance to the Merrimac River, Newburyport, Massachusetts. Upon notification that a small boat had capsized _ mile north of the north jetty with 2 people in the water, the MLB was dispatched. Upon arriving on scene Seaman Kallelis entered the 15 foot breaking seas and proceeded to swim to the 2 people. Reaching the closer one approximately 30 feet from the MLB, Seaman Kallelis grabbed hold of him and they were hauled back aboard the MLB. Seaman Kallelis immediately swam back to, and rescued, the semi-conscious second person. Seaman Kallelis demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent danger in this rescue. Seaman Kallelis’ unselfish actions, courage, unwavering devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.