The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Gunnery Sergeant Kenneth Dean Cowart (MCSN: 2679895), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while serving as Instructor at Naval Air Maintenance Training Group Detachment 1024, Marine Corps Air Station, Beaufort, South Carolina on 6 February 1982. Gunnery Sergeant Cowart observed a serious multiple vehicle accident on U.S. Highway 21 near Beaufort, South Carolina where a ruptured gas tank caused a fire which engulfed two vehicles. Rapidly and accurately assessing the life threatening situation for the drivers of both vehicles, Gunner Sergeant Cowart stopped his car and immediately acted to safely remove the two unconscious drivers from their burning vehicles without regard for his personal safety in the face of the fire and an impending explosion. By his courageous and spontaneous reaction, despite the great personal risk, Gunnery Sergeant Cowart undoubtedly saved the lives of both drivers; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.