The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Seaman Second Class Howard K. Royer, United States Naval Reserve, for heroic conduct while serving aboard the LCT 35 during the landings at Anzio, Italy, in January 1944. A heavy enemy aerial attack developed and a large bomb struck close to the LCI(L) 211, moored in the harbor. The LCT 35 was shifted alongside the stricken craft and he and his comrades disregarded their own safety to remove wounded men and bring the fires under control. Their efforts contributed materially to the probable saving of several lives.