The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Third Class David George Corder, United States Navy, for heroism while serving as a Crash and Salvage Rescueman aboard U.S.S. AMERICA (CV-66) on the night of 29 January 1981. Petty Officer Corder’s rapid response to the crash of an A-7E aircraft on the flight deck of U.S.S. AMERICA contributed greatly to the successful rescue of the pilot and the effective control of the ensuing fire. Displaying courage, stamina, and disregard for his own personal safety, he immediately raced across the flight deck to the site of the crash and assisted the pilot out of the burning aircraft despite the threat of explosion. After the pilot’s safety was assured, Petty Officer Corder quickly manned available fire fighting equipment and assisted in the attempt to contain the rapidly spreading fuel fire. By his prompt and courageous actions under the most adverse conditions, Petty Officer Corder was instrumental in saving the injured pilot’s life, minimizing personnel casualties, and limiting the damage to the ship; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.