The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Seaman First Class William E. Burke, United States Coast Guard Reserve, for heroism in rescuing a man from drowning in the San Juanico Straits, Philippine Islands on 13 June 1945, while attached to the U.S. Army FE-366. While on duty aboard ship he noticed that a dory containing nine men had capsized in the strong current. When rescue boats were unable to reach one man who was in danger of drowning, Seaman First Class Burke dove into the water with a life jacket, gave it to the floundering man and kept him afloat until help arrived. His prompt action saved the man’s life and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.