The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Farris H. Burton (NSN: 5525107), United States Navy, for exceptionally courageous and outstanding performance of duty during rescue operations by the U.S.S. ROCHE (DE-197) in heavy weather on the occasion of a collision between the U.S.A.T. McANDREW and F.N.S. BEA RN on 13 March 1945. Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Burton was largely responsible for the successful rescue of one survivor through his timely actions and assisted with untiring efforts in other rescues. At great personal danger from the violent rolling of the ship in high seas, Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Burton with total disregard for his own safety, went over the side of the ship to assist men in the water, thereby contributing, by his resourcefulness and prompt action, to the success of the rescue efforts. The courage, skill and decisive action displayed by Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Burton reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.