Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Specialist Fifth Class

    Regiment:

    39th Engineer Group

    Action Date:

    December 10, 1963

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 15 (April 23, 1964)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Specialist Fifth Class Jack Hansel, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving with Detachment Home Run (Provisional), 39th Engineer Group, on 10 December 1963, in Skopje, Yugoslavia. While operating a grader on a construction site near the Vardar River in Skopje, he was informed that a man had jumped into the water from a railroad bridge to avoid being hit by an onrushing train. Specialist Hansel ran to a point downstream and, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, entered the icy waters to rescue the drowning man. Despite the strong current and weight of his own apparel, he succeeded in reaching the fully clothed Yugoslavian victim and pulling him to the safety of the shore. By his prompt and courageous conduct in the presence of many Yugoslavian citizens, Specialist Hansel materially enhanced the prestige of the United States military forces. His heroic actions in this emergency are in the highest traditions of the United States Army, and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.