Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Chief Metalsmith

    Division:

    U.S.S. Falcon (ASR-2)

    Action Date:

    May 23, 1939

    The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Chief Metalsmith James Harper McDonald, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as a Master Diver with the Submarine and Rescue Salvage Unit, U.S.S. Falcon, throughout the rescue and salvage operations following the sinking of the U.S.S. Squalus on 23 May 1939. Chief Metalsmith McDonald’s leadership, masterly skill, general efficiency, and untiring devotion to duty in directing diving operations, and in making important and difficult dives under the most hazardous conditions, characterize conduct far above and beyond the ordinary call of duty.