The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Second Lieutenant Robert L. Blalack (MCSN: 0-55404), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in the rescue of an injured, unconscious pilot from a flaming aircraft, and helping to prevent a major disaster at a forward Korean airfield on 18 September 1952. While serving with a Marine Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Second Lieutenant Blalack witnessed a heavily armed fighter-bomber crass on take-off, striking two other armed aircraft parked nearby. He immediately rushed to the scene of the flaming wreckage, despite the great risk to his own life from the possible explosion of five bombs, eight hundred rounds of ammunition and high octane gasoline. With the aid of a fellow Marine, Second Lieutenant Blalack worked quickly but calmly to successfully remove the injured, unconscious pilot from the tangled cockpit, then returned to help control and extinguish the fire. His actions, in the face of great danger, saved the life of the pilot and helped to prevent what might have otherwise been a major disaster in the combat area. Second Lieutenant Blalack’s courageous conduct, outstanding initiative and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.