The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Francis E. Cavin, United States Navy, for heroism aboard the U.S.S. CHENANGO (CVE-28) while engaged in operations against the enemy in the vicinity of Okinawa on 9 April 1945. After a fire was started among parked planes when a landing plane jumped the barriers, he helped remove and jettison bombs, rockets and ammunition from loaded planes and loading racks in the fire zone. Fearlessly and calmly, despite exploding rockets and ammunition and the constant threat of the explosion of heavy bombs, he worked to prevent damage to his ship. Success of his efforts resulted in the return of his ship to combat operations in a short time. His conduct was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.