Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Boatswain’s Mate First Class

    Division:

    U.S.S. Brush (DD-745)

    Action Date:

    September 26, 1950

    Commander Naval Forces Far East: Serial 4898 (May 20, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Boatswain’s Mate First Class Thelbert L. Metheny (NSN: 3371267), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the rescue of personnel casualties aboard the U.S.S. BRUSH (DD-745) on 26 September 1950, when the BRUSH struck an enemy mine in North Korean waters. Boatswain’s Mate First Class Metheny, without regard for his personal safety, entered Plot, which was oil-drenched, filled with smoke and fumes and a burning inferno, to rescue his shipmates who remained alive in this space. He was able to remove two men who doubtlessly would have perished but for his coolness and tenacity of effort. Boatswain’s Mate First Class Metheny also sight-checked five remaining bodies among much debris and live electrical circuits to determine whether or not they could be removed. His unfailing devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.