Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Damage Controlman Second Class

    Division:

    U.S.S. Remey (DD-688)

    Action Date:

    December 19, 1960

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Damage Controlman Second Class Donald L. Arbogast (NSN: 4678634), United States Navy, for heroism while serving on board the U.S.S. REMEY (DD-688) on 19 December 1960. As a member of the U.S.S. REMEY rescue and assistance detail, formed to assist the U.S.S. CONSTELLATION (CVA-64), on fire at Pier J, New York Naval Shipyard, Brooklyn, New York, Petty Officer Arbogast unhesitatingly descended to the second deck in the after section of the burning ship, without regard for his personal safety, and carried an injured man to safety. After this rescue, he removed a second injured man from an area above the hangar deck, working in heavy smoke, where bulkheads were cherry red from the intense heat. With continued disregard for his own safety he then assisted in removing nine bodies from this area. His courageous and prompt actions in the face of great personal risk undoubtedly saved two lives, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.