(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Seaman First Class Thomas W. Cleary, United States Navy, was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for heroism while serving as a member of a repair party on board the U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), engaged in operations against the enemy in the vicinity of Shikoku Island. When an enemy bomb hit had caused extensive fires on the gallery deck of his ship on 19 March 1945, he entered the burning spaces to assist in the rescue of several others. Working under adverse conditions of intense heat and dense smoke he repeatedly risked his life to aid his shipmates who were trapped below in the damaged area. His utter disregard for his own safety was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.