The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Seaman David W. Kelley, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the night of 8 August 1975 while serving as the crewman of a 13-foot Zodiac test boat during the rescue of the pilot of a downed aircraft in heavy seas off Race Point Light, Provincetown, Massachusetts. Upon notification of the downed plane, Seaman Kelley and a rescue crew from Coast Guard Station Race Point proceeded to the scene and upon arrival were confronted with turbulent seas and high winds that severely hampered the launching of the rescue boat. After repeated attempts, the boat was launched and with no navigational equipment, maneuvered toward the pilot’s cries for help. Within minutes the gravely injured pilot was located and with complete disregard for his own safety, Seaman Kelley grasped the hapless pilot and brought him safely into the rescue boat. As the boat approached shore, the violent seas capsized the rescue craft, hurling the occupants into the raging surf. Injured in the capsizing, Seaman Kelley reached shore where the victim was receiving medal attention. When notified that another person was on board the downed aircraft, Seaman Kelley, despite his injury, attempted to return to the plane. T his attempt was thwarted by the fierceness of the seas that prevented the boat from being launched. Seaman Kelley demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.