The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant, Junior Grade James L. Hamilton, United States Naval Reserve, for heroic conduct when a plane crashed in the sea on 10 March 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hamilton discovered that a crewman floating nearby had disappeared. He immediately swam to the area and pulled his helpless shipmate from beneath the water, supporting him until a rescue ship arrived. His presence of mind undoubtedly saved the man’s life.