The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Shipfitter Second Class Walter E. Kull, United States Navy, for heroism while a member of the Fire Rescue Party from the U.S.S. VULCAN in Algiers Harbor on 4 August 1943. As a result of the explosion of an ammunition ship, H.M.S. ARROW was set violently ablaze in the harbor of Algiers. Shipfitter Second Class Kull, as a member of a small boat party, with complete disregard for his own safety, made fast alongside the fiercely burning ship. He courageously assisted in a valiant attempt, by cutting through the ship’s side with a cutting torch, to rescue men who were trapped below decks. Despite the hazard of further explosions, he continued his efforts with coolness and perseverance for an extended period. The extraordinary heroism and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Shipfitter Second Class Kull were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.