The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Staff Sergeant Joseph F. Carter, United States Marine Corps, for heroism on 16 July 1972 while serving with Company A, Eighth Engineer Battalion, Force Troops, Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic. While fishing in the waters of New River Inlet along the French Creek Branch, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Staff Sergeant Carter heard the distressed cries of a Marine who had developed cramps in his legs and was in danger of drowning. With complete disregard for his own personal safety and fully aware of the danger involved, Staff Sergeant Carter unhesitatingly plunged into the water and brought the Marine to shore, where he ensured the health and safety of the victim before collapsing from exhaustion. Staff Sergeant Carter’s courageous actions were instrumental in saving the young man’s life and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.