Navy / marine corps medal (of heroism)

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"The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the NAVY AND MARINE CORPS MEDAL to: Lance Corporal Christopher A. Buckley, United States Marine Corps for service as set forth in the following:

CITATION: For heroism while serving as Motor Transport Operator, Headquarters and Service Company, 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps Forces, Pacific on 7 September 2001. While on liberty in Kaneohe, Hawaii, Lance Corporal Buckley and two other Marines spotted flames engulfing a multi-level home. Disregarding his own personal safety, he immediately reacted and ran into the burning building to evacuate its occupants. Finding the family in disarray and the house filling with smoke, he made repeated trips into the burning building in order to lead family members to safety. In doing so, he personally evacuated three individuals, an elderly couple, and a small child. After the initial evacuation, Lance Corporal Buckley restrained the elderly woman as she tried to re-enter the building to recover some personal belongings. This action saved the woman's life, as two propane tanks behind the house exploded minutes later, destroying the residence and causing two other buildings in the area to catch fire. As a result of Lance Corporal Buckley's actions, the potentially deadly fire caused no injuries despite its severe destructive effects. By his courageous and prompt actions in the face of great personal risk, Lance Corporal Buckley reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. "

-For the President, James L. Jones, Commandant, United States Marine Corps.