The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Private First Class Albert Bland (MCSN: 854109), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism in rescuing the members of a heavy bomber which crashed while attempting to land at Tinian, Mariana Islands, on the morning of 27 February 1945. Private First Class Bland upon seeing the plane crash, without hesitation entered the immediate vicinity of the plane and assisted in removing members of the crew from the burning wreckage. The plane was in flames, its small arms ammunition exploding, and the gasoline tanks were threatening to explode. Private First Class Bland, however, in utter disregard for personal safety, aided in the evacuation of the plane’s crew. His courageous conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.