Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Specialist Fourth Class

    Action Date:

    September 22, 1966

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 12 (March 17, 1967)

    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 Fourth Class Richard L. Jones (ASN: RA-8694741), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy. Specialist Four Jones at great risk to his own safety, demonstrated courage and heroism in saving the life of a drowning DA civilian near Warin, Thailand on 22 September 1966. Assigned to the 207th Signal Company (TROPO), 379th Signal Battalion (Support), Specialist Jones witnessed a jeep being washed off a causeway and into the rapid current of the flooded Moon River. One occupant of the jeep could not swim and was in immediate danger of drowning. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Specialist Jones leaped from his own vehicle and into the stream where, despite the 25 mph current, he managed to keep the victim afloat until others could come to their aid. Specialist Jones’ courageous and decisive action averted a certain tragedy in this incident and is placing of higher concern for the safety is of another than his own reflects admirably the traditions and ideals of the military service.