Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Airman’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Airman First Class

    Action Date:

    July 29, 1967

    Headquarters, Department of the Air Force, Special Order GB-380 (October 25, 1967)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Airman’s Medal to Airman First Class James J. Nierenberg (AFSN: AF-12764528), United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life at 2545 North Goyette Avenue, Tucson, Arizona, on 29 July 1967. On that date, Airman Nierenberg observed twin sisters, Annette and Andrea Martin, lying face down in a neighbor’s swimming pool. Upon entering the pool he received a severe electric shock and discovered that the water pump was shorting out, electrifying the pool. He jumped from the pool, unplugged the pump motor, removed the girls from the water, and began applying artificial respiration simultaneously to both girls, thereby saving their lives. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, Airman Nierenberg has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.