The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Seaman Cameron E. McDougle, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on 12 November 1981 while serving as a crewman of the rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHI) from U.S.C.G.C. ALERT [WMEC-630]. On 11 and 12 November 1981 ALERT steamed through an intense storm to reach the sailing vessel HALCYON. The HALCYON had been beset by heavy seas and high winds while sailing 200 miles off the coast of North Carolina. By the time ALERT arrived the wind was over 50 knots and the seas were breaking at 30 feet. Despite these impossible conditions, Petty Officer McDougle volunteered to serve as a crewman of the small boat in an attempt to rescue the HALCYON’s sole occupant. After the RHI was launched, Petty Officer McDougle assisted the coxswain in locating HALCYON in the turbulent seas. As the RHI was lined up for its approach to the foundering sailboat, a huge sea capsized and sank HALCYON, throwing the occupant into the sea and nearly capsizing the RHI. Reacting immediately, the coxswain maneuvered the RHI into position so that Petty Officer McDougle and the other crewman could pull the survivor to safety. As the coxswain positioned the RHI next to the wildly tossing ALERT, Petty Officer DAVIS helped secure the RHI alongside the cutter so it could be hoisted onto the cutter. ALERT then proceeded to the scene of the sailing vessel OUR WAY, arriving on the night of 12 November. Petty Officer McDougle again volunteered to serve as crewman of the RHI. The RHI was again launched and maneuvered away from ALERT to the side of the best OUR WAY. Upon arrival, the lone occupant was found fatigued to near incoherence. Aside from the difficulties of operating in the heavy seas, Petty Officer McDougle and the crew had to convince the man to leave his boat. Once convinced, the man had to be physically assisted into the RHI. The RHI was returned to ALERT where it was hoisted to safety. Petty Officer McDougle demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish action, courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.