The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal (Posthumously) to Gunnery Sergeant Frank “B” Allen (MCSN: 205334), United States Marine Corps, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 21 May 1944, at West Loch, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii while aboard LST #179. At about 1500 an explosion occurred which started a fire aboard the LST, causing its complete loss. During the resulting explosions of fuel and ammunition supplies and the intense flames, Gunnery Sergeant Allen stayed aboard the LST to attend the injured men, carry wounded men to the main decks for evacuation, and assist the Marine Officer of the Day in handling the movements of troops passengers. In spite of his knowing that he could not swim, Gunnery Sergeant Allen made not attempt to leave the ship and enter small boats which were evacuating the wounded, and he stayed aboard the LST until the final explosions which caused his ship to sink. Gunnery Sergeant Allen’s complete disregard for his own safety, his courageous devotion to duty, and his outstanding bravery in assisting others during this disaster were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.