The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to John E. Dunkley, Jr., United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism beyond the call of duty while attached to a Naval Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit in assisting in the control of dangerous fires and explosions caused by the crash of a Liberator Bomber on Stickell Field, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands. On the night of 9 August 1944, a Liberator loaded with bombs and ammunition, and destined for a mission against the enemy-held base, went out of control on take-off and crashed among hundreds of parked carrier aircraft. The ensuing crash caused numerous fires and terrific explosions. Without regard for his personal safety, he ran toward the burning plane and assisted in putting out the flaming clothes of three crew members and dispatching them to the Naval Dispensary. He then returned to the burning plane, found two more men inside also on fire, and put out the flames with his hands, and carried one and supporting the other led them to safety just prior to the first explosion. His voluntary actions and example to others aiding him were fare beyond the line of duty and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.