The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Kenneth R. Rider, United States Coast Guard, for heroism during the fire fighting operations following a fire and explosion aboard the tanker AMOCO VIRGINIA at Hess Terminal Corporation on the Houston Ship channel, Houston, Texas, on 8 November 1959. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Rider, being Officer of the Day at Captain of the Port, Houston, proceeded to the scene immediately following the explosion. On arrival he found chaos and confusion. He initially assumed and was subsequently designated On Scene Commander and functioned as such during the twenty hour duration of the fire . He continually exposed himself to danger above and beyond the call of duty, while calmly, steadfastly, and intelligently directing Coast Guard activities and assisting vitally the City of Houston Fire Chief. On two occasions he boarded the furiously burning tanker to search for survivors of the ship’s crew, at great risk to his own life. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Rider demonstrated initiative and fortitude in spite of imminent personal danger during the entire operation. His unselfish actions and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.