The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Ship’s Serviceman Second Class James Paul Bonnell, United States Navy, for heroism while serving on board U.S.S. TRIPOLI (LPH-10) on 21 April 1977. At approximately 2000 hours while on Fifth Avenue in downtown San Diego, California, Petty Officer Bonnell heard a pistol shot and witnessed an armed robbery taking place. As the victim called for help, Petty Officer Bonnell, with complete disregard for his own safety and fully aware of the personal dangers involved, unhesitatingly tackled the armed, fleeing suspect and wrestled him to the ground. With the aid of a bystander, he held the man until police officers arrived at the scene. It was later learned that the suspect was a hardened criminal and was wanted by the police for another shooting. Petty Officer Bonnell’s courageous and prompt actions in the face of great personal risks reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.