Navy Federal Credit Union

Eugene Hickey graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, Class of 1960. He retired as a U.S. Coast Guard Captain.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Division:

    U.S.C.G.C. Point White (WPB-82308)

    Action Date:

    March 9, 1966

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Eugene J. Hickey, United States Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on 9 March 1966, while serving as Commanding Officer, Coast Guard Cutter POINT WHITE (WPB-82308), in the hostile area of the Soi Rap River, Long An Province, Republic of Vietnam. Upon encountering a Viet Cong junk with fourteen Viet Cong on board, who commenced an intense barrage of automatic and small-arms fire against POINT WHITE, Lieutenant Hickey achieved a decisive victory by skillfully maneuvering his cutter to ram the junk. In this engagement, POINT WHITE killed eight Viet Cong and captured four prisoners, on of whom was personally saved from drowning by Lieutenant Hickey who courageously went over the side of the cutter to pull the wounded man to safety. No sooner had he accomplished this valiant act when, with complete disregard for his own life, he exposed himself to the imminent danger of a devastating explosion by jettisoning several rounds of 81-mm. mortar ammunition that had been struck and set afire in the ready ammunition locker by enemy gunfire. By his leadership, courage, and professional skill, Lieutenant Hickey upheld the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.