The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Sonarman Third Class Douglas Price Holmes, United States Navy, for heroic conduct in rescuing a badly injured shipmate from the sea in the Okinawa area on 5 May 1945. Although in the water without a life jacket for a long time, Sonarman Third Class Holmes remained with and supported the injured man until a ship maneuvered to his rescue. Despite his own exhaustion, Sonarman Third Class Holmes refused to leave his comrade until he was aboard the rescue ship. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.