Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Specialist Fifth Class

    Batallion:

    3d Aviation Battalion

    Action Date:

    June 6, 1963

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 3 (January 28, 1964)

    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 Specialist Fifth Class John C. Brewer, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company A, 3d Aviation Battalion, on 6 June 1963, near Nassig, Germany. Specialist Brewer was serving as Crew Chief on a CH-34 helicopter transporting six passengers and cargo when an electrical malfunction exploded the battery and set the aircraft on fire. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he fought the fire with a hand fire extinguisher while the aircraft was airborne. Upon landing, he quickly directed the evacuation of the passengers and, despite an impending gasoline explosion, sickening fumes, and dense smoke, he continued to fight the fire. His perseverance, courage, and diligent efforts averted the possible loss of life and valuable government property. Specialist Brewer’s prompt and heroic in action in this emergency is in the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army.