The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Private First Class John W. Britton, Jr. (MCSN: 375031), United States Marine Corps, for heroic initiative and personal bravery at Eniwetok Lagoon, Marshall Islands, 22 February 1944. A LCVP was being hoisted from the main deck of the U.S.S. ELECTRA into the water. As the LCVP was swung out over the rail the rigging broke causing the LCVP to fall into the water. Two members of the crew of the LCVP were in it at the time, both of whom were severely injured and thrown into the water. He jumped into the water and held one man’s head above the water and also holding on to the LCVP which sank within a few minutes. Two other Marines then jumped in and assisted him in holding this man until a passing boat came to their aid. Although the man died as a result of his injuries within a few minutes after being brought aboard, his quick action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.