The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Steven L. Salo, United States Coast Guard, for extraordinary heroism on the evening of 15 November 1977 when he assisted in the rescue of six Coast Guardsmen from drowning near the Columbia River Bar, Washington. Petty Officer Salo was serving as student crewmember on board Coast Guard Utility Boat 41332 when it capsized during a night navigational exercise. Overcoming the initial shock of being capsized and trapped inside the hull of the boat, Petty Officer Salo helped calm the crew and identify those present and missing. He then helped clear the debris floating among the survivors, took inventory of the survival equipment on hand, and began planning an escape route. After effecting his own escape, petty Officer Salo proceeded to encourage the remaining crewmen to make their escape by yelling to those still inside and again describing in detail the escape route. Upon the arrival of a Coast Guard helicopter, Petty Officer Salo, with complete disregard for his personal safety, grabbed the rescue basket six times, accepting the static electricity shock each time, and assisted his fellow crewmen into it, despite surging 18-foot breakers. With the other survivors safely in the helicopter, Petty Officer Salo, suffering from the onset of hypothermia and with no one to assist, was then hoisted to safety. Petty Officer Salo’s remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger resulted in the saving of the six crewmen and himself. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.