The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Corporal Paul Edward Allen (MCSN: 2139869), United States Marine Corps, for heroism in rescuing a crew member of an amphibian vehicle while serving with the Third Amphibian Tractor Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, Republic of Vietnam on 20 October 1966. During a routine training mission involving amphibian tractors and shipboard technical radar operations, an amphibious vehicle commenced to sink into the South China Sea. Sighting a fellow Marine desperately struggling in the turbulent water, Corporal Allen dove in to rescue him. With complete disregard for his own safety and fully aware of the personal danger involved, Corporal Allen struggled to the side of the drowning Marine and kept him afloat until he received assistance. Corporal Allen then aided other crew members in placing the unconscious Marine aboard another amphibian tractor, and administered artificial respiration to him until they reached shore where medical assistance was obtained. Through his alertness and composure, Corporal Allen was responsible for saving the life of a comrade. His courageous and prompt actions in the face of grave personal danger reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.