The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Boatswain’s Mate Seaman Michael W. Barnes, United States Navy, for heroism while serving on board the U.S.S. EL PASO (LKA-117) moored in Antwerp, Belgium, on the night of 6 October 1980. Seaman Barnes demonstrated great courage and presence of mind when he entered the swift and cold currents of the Scheldt River to save a young girl who had fallen into the river between the ship and the pier, and was being carried away by strong current. With complete disregard to the real and apparent risks to his own safety, Seaman Barnes entered the water unassisted, pulled the victim from below the surface, and towed her cross-current to safety by grabbing a ladder rung in the pier as he was being swept by. Seaman Barnes’ prompt and courageous actions undoubtedly saved the life of the young girl; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.