Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Action Date:

    November 19, 1984

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Sergeant Kevin J. Brooks, United States Marine Corps, for heroism while serving at Infantry Training School, Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, on 19 November 1984. After observing the nearby crash of a CH-53E helicopter which was carrying embarked Marines and an externally loaded M114 howitzer, Sergeant Brooks immediately proceeded to the crash site. The force of the crash broke the tail section from the fuselage, the rotor blades were still dangerously spinning close to the ground, and the starboard fuel tank ripped downward and was dangling near the crew chief’s hatch. Moreover the fuel tanks were cracked causing fuel to discharge rapidly around the burning aircraft. Although placing himself in extreme personal danger, Sergeant Brooks unhesitatingly made his way to the wreckage through the pool of fuel causing his boots and clothes to become saturated. While avoiding the rapidly spreading flames, he reached into the aircraft and pulled injured, incapacitated Marines to safety. Sergeant Brooks remained at the wreckage in the large pool of fuel rendering assistance until the heightening fire forced him to finally withdraw. By his courage and prompt action in the face of great personal risk, Sergeant Brooks saved the Marines from burning to death; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.