Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Private First Class Jerald F. Kearney (ASN: RA-12965437), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, United States Army Security Agency Group, Korea, on 6 August 1968 at approximately 0900 hours. Private Kearney was a passenger on a ferry crossing the treacherous Kum-Gang River, at Kunsan, Korea. Upon nearing the Southern dock of the ferry crossing, Private Kearney, along with several other passengers, observed a young Korean boy being swept downstream by the extremely swift current and outgoing tide of the Kum-Gang River. The boy was approximately 50 yards from the Kunsan shore and was struggling to keep above water by flailing his arms in the air. However, he continued to sink below the surface of the water four or five times. Private Kearney immediately, and without regard to his own life and safety, removed his shoes and drove off the ferry and into the river. He swam approximately 20 yards to the boy who was unconscious by this time, began to tow him to shore against the adverse current, and finally reached the shore. Although obviously fatigued from the rescue, Private Kearney, without hesitation, began to administer artificial respiration to the boy. His efforts were successful, and the young boy revived after about four minutes. Private Kearney’s completely voluntary act, alert action and complete disregard for his own personal safety without question save the young Korean boy’s life. His exemplary actions in risking his life above and beyond the call of duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the unites states Army.

Awards Received