The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant Commander Ernest J. J. Caron (NSN: 0-5167336), United States Navy, for heroism while serving as Commanding Officer, Naval Reserve Center, Allentown, Pennsylvania on 26 June 1975. While on a camping trip at Lake Kezar, Levell, Maine, Lieutenant Commander Caron heard cries for help from young people aboard a raft in the lake. He immediately got into a canoe and paddled out to the raft. Reaching the raft, Lieutenant Commander Caron was informed that a young boy had passed out and sank into the water. With complete disregard for his own safety and fully aware of the personal dangers involved, he plunged into the water and with great effort lifted the boy to the surface. Upon boarding the raft, Lieutenant Commander Caron continuously administered mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, thus reviving the boy. By his courageous and prompt actions in the face of great personal risk, Lieutenant Commander Caron undoubtedly saved the boy from drowning; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.