The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal (Posthumously) to Seaman Second Class Leo Frederick Peterschmidt, United States Navy, for heroic conduct during World War II. Tying a heavy rope around his waist, Seaman Second Class Peterschmidt swam through 15-foot breakers to the aid of four soldiers washed overboard during landing operations. After tying the rope around two of the men who were pulled ashore, he helped the others into a boat, but sank from sight before he, himself, could be pulled aboard.