The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Ensign [then Chief Machinist’s Mate] William C. Van Kirk, United States Navy, for heroic conduct while serving aboard U.S.S. S-35 (SS-156) on the occasion of a serious casualty to the vessel on 30 January 1944. In the face of dense smoke and toxic gasses resulting from a severe fire, and with complete disregard of the great danger to himself, Ensign Van Kirk entered a confined, debris filled compartment and assisted in the removal of an injured man. In spite of his exhaustion from smoke and gas, he re-entered the compartment and succeeded in removing another man who was seriously injured and unconscious. His outstanding bravery and devotion to his shipmates were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.