The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Sergeant Kevin John Bernal, United States Marine Corps, for heroism while serving as 3d Section Leader, HMX-1 Alert Unit, Executive Flight Detachment, Anacostia Naval Station, Washington, D.C. In the early morning hours of 19 June 1983, Building 72, which houses many sailors and Marines at the Anacostia Naval Station, caught fire. While on a routine tour of the detachment billeting area, Sergeant Bernal heard what he believed to be a malfunctioning fire alarm. He investigated and found heavy smoke pouring from the area adjacent to where his men were sleeping. Disregarding his own safety, Sergeant Bernal immediately aroused the sleeping Marines and organized the evacuation of the building. He then moved through the Navy portion of the building awakening the sailors housed there. When told that a Marine was still in the affected area, Sergeant Bernal unhesitatingly returned and located the disoriented man. Despite heavy smoke, choking fumes, and imminent collapse of the roof, he led the Marine to safety. Sergeant Bernal again attempted to enter the building but succumbed to smoke inhalation and was forced to remain outside. By his prompt and selfless courage in rousing the sleeping residents and presence of mind in directing their orderly evacuation, Sergeant Bernal inspired all those who observed him and his efforts resulted in many lives saved; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.