The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Parachute Rigger First Class Gary Lee Blevins, United States Navy, for heroism while serving aboard U.S.S. GUADALCANAL (LPH-7) on 16 May 1976. Petty Officer Blevins, working in the hangar bay, heard the explosion and impact of a CH-46 aircraft on the port side of the ship. He immediately proceeded to the port quarterdeck to render assistance. Observing an unconscious passenger who was thrown from the exploding helicopter, Petty Officer Blevins received permission to enter the water and attempt a rescue. At great personal risk to himself, Petty Officer Blevins jumped from the hangar deck level and swam through floating fuel and sharp metal debris and managed to successfully keep one individual afloat until a rescue craft arrived. By his courageous and prompt action in the face of great personal risk, Petty Officer Blevins undoubtedly saved the victim from drowning; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.