The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Boatswain’s Mate Third Class Willie C. Lawrence (NSN: 5570145), United States Navy, for heroism in the performance of his duties while serving on board the U.S. Naval Air Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, on 13 September 1959. While serving as Base Police Sentry Boatswain’s Mate Third Class Lawrence displayed exceptional courage and initiative beyond that required or expected of his rating. During his sentry watch at Leeward Point Field, U.S. Naval Air Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, on 13 September 1959, Boatswain’s Mate Third Class Lawrence successfully apprehended three Marines who were returning from unauthorized absence in Cuban Territory. Upon apprehension, one of the Marines seized a shotgun from the Marine sentry on watch with Boatswain’s Mate Third Class and threatened his life. In the face of great danger to himself and the Marine sentry, Boatswain’s Mate Third Class Lawrence disarmed the Marine and placed him in custody. His conduct and loyalty to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.