The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Signalman Second Class Charles J. J. McGrath, United States Coast Guard, for heroism and outstanding performance beyond the call of duty during rescue operations in connection with the sinking of U.S.S. PLYMOUTH through enemy action on 5 August 1943. Signalman Second Class McGrath and comrades volunteered to man a small boat which was launched from the deck of U.S.C.G.C. CALYPSO under extremely difficult and hazardous conditions. The heavy task of launching was made perilous because of the heavy seas running which was rolling the decks under and threatened to smash the life boat against the side of the vessel several times. Also, on launching, the boat was half-swamped so that extreme skill was required to clear it successfully to avoid the danger of its being completely swamped or overturned. This volunteer crew saved many survivors who were in danger of drowning and of being attacked by many sharks seen in the vicinity.