The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Gunner’s Mate Third Class Homer L. Guffey, United States Navy, for heroic conduct during World War II. Gunner’s Mate Third Class Guffey and three comrades risked their lives to assist in rescuing a shipmate who was washed overboard at French Frigate Shoals, Territory of Hawaii, on 24 November 1942. Boatswain’s Mate First Class Marvin J. Butler and Gunner’s Mate Third Class Homer L. Guffey swam out to the helpless man and supported him above water, while Chief Motor Machinist’s Mate John Placido and Gunner’s Mate Second Class Wilber E. Danielson fought their way through a heavy surf with a lifeline, thereby bringing the hazardous rescue operations to a successful conclusion.