The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Chief Machinery Technician William C. Marshall, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the morning of 13 March 1978 while engaged in fire fighting activities on board U.S.C.G.C. RED WOOD [WLM-685] near Groton, Connecticut. While performing his routine duties, Petty Officer Marshall heard general quarters sounded and immediately proceeded to his billet. After donning his oxygen-breathing-apparatus he hurried to the scene of the fire. Upon arrival, he found that intense heat and blinding black smoke had forced the watchstanders out of the engine room before they were able to energize the ship’s fire pump. Realizing that the fire could not be fought without charge hoses, Petty Officer Marshall joined a comrade, and, with complete disregard for his own safety, crawled into the engine room. Unable to see because of the smoke, the two men used their sense of touch and memory of the engine room to locate the switch and energize the fire pump. This action enabled the crew of RED WOOD to quickly extinguish the fire, thereby preventing further damage to the ship. Petty Officer Marshall demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude and daring in spite of the imminent personal danger during this ordeal. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.