Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers)

    Batallion:

    65th Engineer Battalion

    Action Date:

    February 17, 1963

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 46 (September 27, 1963)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) Charles D. Darby, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 65th Engineer Battalion, on 17 February 1963, at Kawailoa Beach, Oahu, Hawaii. When Lieutenant Darby heard the call for help from a swimmer, who was skin diving approximately 300 yards offshore, and became unable to return to the beach, he immediately went to his aid. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he plunged into the surf and, despite the heavy seas, began swimming toward the man who was being carried farther out to sea. With determination and tremendous effort, he fought the strong currents and finally reached the swimmer, who was then approximately one-half mile from shore. He calmed the panic-stricken man, continually encouraged him, and for approximately 30 minutes, supported him in the treacherous water until a member of the Police Rescue Squad arrived and returned them both to the beach on a surfboard. Lieutenant Darby’s heroic action is in the highest traditions of the military service and reflects distinct credit upon himself in the United States Army.