The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Photographer’s Mate Second Class Nelson Harold Barger, United States Navy, for heroism while attached to Commander, Fleet Intelligence Center Europe and Atlantic, Norfolk, Virginia on 24 September 1983. After being awakened by a smoke detector alarm at 0320, Petty Officer Barger searched his own apartment, the common hallways, and the outside of the building where he found smoke coming from under the door of a neighbor’s apartment. Reacting immediately, he shattered the bedroom window, used three fire extinguishers to subdue the blaze, and then finding the bedroom empty, broke through the glass patio doors. With complete disregard for his own safety, Petty Officer Barger crawled into the smoke-filled living room and carried an unconscious woman to safety. More than ten minutes passed before any fire or rescue personnel arrived, at which time the apartment was engulfed in flames. By his quick thinking, presence of mind, and courageous action in the face of danger, Petty Officer Barger undoubtedly saved the victim’s life; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.