The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Hospitalman Leonard Anthony Brisendine, United States Navy, for heroism while serving on board U.S.S. PHARRIS (FF-1094) following the collision of U.S.S. BELKNAP (CG-26) and U.S.S. JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV-67) in the Ionian Sea on the night of 22 November 1975. During the hours immediately following the collision, Hospitalman Brisendine, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, boarded the fiercely burning BELKNAP. Before essential medical supplies became available, he flawlessly rendered needed emergency first aid and comfort to numerous BELKNAP crewmen. His efficient and knowledgeable diagnosis and treatment amid the chaos were instrumental in reducing the seriousness of many of the injured. Further, his quick reaction and use of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and subsequent treatment saved the life of one victim suffering from acute cyanosis. Hospitalman Brisendine’s prompt actions, professional expertise, and selfless devotion to duty in the face of great personal risk reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.