The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Engineman (Life Saving) Second Class Sanford C. White, United States Coast Guard, for heroism during fire fighting operations following an explosion and fire aboard the U.S.C.G.C. CHILULA (WATF 153), which was underway on a logistics trip on 29 December 1960. When the explosion occurred, White was sprayed with hot lube oil which ignited his clothes and caused second and third degree burns to his hands, arms, back and face. He quickly beat out the flames and despite his painful injuries and the intense heat and smoke, which precluded others entering the engine room without an inhalator, began fighting the fire alone with portable extinguishers until it was under control. He then shut down the engine in which the explosion occurred. By the time help arrived, White was in a state of shock and had to be assisted from the engine room. His actions, at great risk to his own life, undoubtedly prevented a rapid spread of the fire and loss of all propulsion power for a protracted period of time. White demonstrated initiative and fortitude, in spite of imminent personal danger. His unselfish actions and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.