The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Gunnery Sergeant Delmas Lee Bryant (MCSN: 230450), United States Marine Corps, for heroic conduct and the performance of outstanding service with complete disregard of his safety when an explosion and fire occurred in the U.S.S. MOBILE during an enemy air attack off the Marshall Islands, 4 – 5 December 1943. He was standing near his own battle station one deck below and near the explosion. When it occurred, he climbed an outside ladder to the scene and assisted several critically wounded men to safety over the shield around an anti-aircraft gun into the compartment where first aid was being given. The forceful manner in which he took charge of the situation until the repair party arrived was outstanding. His bravery in evacuating the wounded while the explosions and fire were still in progress, and his leadership in fighting the fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.