Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Boatswain’s Mate Second Class

    Division:

    U.S.S. Marathon (APA-200)

    Action Date:

    July 22, 1945

    Commander Amphibious Force Pacific: Serial 02815 (October 15, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Charles David Bradford (NSN: 4102723), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as a member of the crew of the attack transport U.S.S. MARATHON (APA-200), on 22 July 1945 during operations off Okinawa. When the ship was hit by an enemy torpedo causing rapid flooding and severe listing, to such an extent that loss of the vessel seemed imminent, he immediately entered a lower deck living compartment which was severely damaged and assisted in the rescue of men injured and trapped. He was not deterred by water and oil rising relentlessly in the compartment, the floating debris and the un-secure footing, but persisted until entrance was no longer possible. In this heroic manner, demonstrating great courage and acting without regard to personal safety, seven shipmates were brought up from the damaged space. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.