Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Fireman Apprentice

    Division:

    U.S.S. Implicit (MSO-455)

    Action Date:

    March 27, 1981

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Fireman Apprentice Billy Ray Beddingfield, United States Navy, for heroism while serving on board U.S.S. IMPLICIT (MSO-455) at Tacoma, Washington on 27 March 1981. Upon arrival at the scene of a fiery, head-on automobile collision, Fireman Apprentice Beddingfield immediately ran to the engulfed vehicles to be of assistance to the passengers. With complete disregard for his own safety and fully aware of the personal danger involved, Fireman Apprentice Beddingfield and a fellow sailor unhesitatingly began extricating a total of eight young girls from the burning wreckage. One of the girls, a driver, was unconscious and trapped between the seat and steering wheel. Despite the imminent danger of a dual explosion, Fireman Apprentice Beddingfield and the other rescuer broke the back of the seat and pulled her through the seat belt which could not be unfastened. Carrying her to a place of safety, Fireman Apprentice Beddingfield then administered first aid to her and the other victims until medical assistance arrived. By his courageous and prompt actions in the face of great personal risk, Fireman Apprentice Beddingfield undoubtedly saved the lives of eight young girls; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.