The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Paul J. Gasparovic, United States Navy, for heroism on 8 June 1945 in assisting in the rescue of a seriously injured officer’s steward from the galley of the U.S.S. SALUTE (AM-294) when that ship struck a mine while engaged in minesweeping operations prior to the amphibious assault landing at Brunei Bay, British North Borneo. Under conditions of great personal danger, he voluntarily and courageously made his way to the after main deck doorway and assisted in the rescue of the stricken man. His heroic conduct, performed in the face of great danger to himself, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.