Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Seaman

    Action Date:

    August 12, 1970

    U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Seaman Robert Mark Ross, United States Coast Guard, for heroic conduct on the afternoon of 12 August 1970 while serving as crew number of CG-44234 engaged in the rescue of the operator of the fishing vessel ALICE which sank in 25 fathoms of water west of Table Bluff, California. Upon arrival on scene, Seaman ROSS boarded the vessel with a portable pump to begin dewatering operations. Six minutes later, before he could get the pump in operation, the vessel began to sink stern first. Seaman Ross swam away from the sinking ship, however, he noticed that the operator was caught in the rigging and was going down with the vessel. With complete disregard for his own safety, Seaman Ross immediately returned to the sinking vessel to assist him. By his quick and heroic efforts he was able to free the man who was trapped below the water in the rigging. Seaman Ross’ unselfish actions, remarkable courage, and unwavering devotion to duty, in spite of imminent personal danger, reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United State Coast Guard.