The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Fireman First Class Willard D. Persson, United States Navy, for heroic conduct during rescue work off Guadalcanal, 13 August 1943. Fireman First Class Persson swam to the aid of a wounded comrade, despite burning oil, exploding ammunition and falling debris and towed him to safety. He assisted in picking up four other men who were helpless in the water.