The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Private First Class Ray C. Allen (MCSN: 897294), United States Marine Corps, for heroism following the explosion of a field range in the galley at an advanced base in the South Pacific area on 26 June 1944. When the clothing of one of the field cooks was ignited as a result of the explosion, the man, momentarily frustrated, ran from the galley. Private First Class Allen, with complete disregard for his own safety, caught and threw his comrade to the ground, beating out the flames with his hands. He then assisted in administering first aid to the injured cook. His gallant and courageous actions were responsible for saving a life and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.