Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Seaman First Class

    Division:

    U.S.S. Earl K. Olsen (DE-765)

    Action Date:

    March 13, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Seaman First Class Vincent Roy Brennan (NSN: 8145060), United States Navy, for heroism and outstanding performance of duty while his ship, U.S.S. EARL K. OLSEN (DE-765), was conducting rescue operations at sea on 13 March 1945, the U.S.A.T. J. W. McANDREW and F.N.S. BEIRN having suffered a collision involving great loss of life which necessitated the search for and recover y of survivors under extremely hazardous conditions of wind and sea. Seaman First Class Brennan ably assisted in one rescue attempt and was largely responsible for the successful rescue of two exhausted Army personnel in two other recovery operations. In the case of both men recovered, one of whom was unconscious when brought aboard, only the timely assistance of Seaman First Class Brennan and another seaman prevented their drowning. In neither cases were the rescued men able to help themselves and Seaman First Class Brennan, at great personal danger because of the violent rolling of the ship and the high seas, lowered himself into the water from which point, with assistance of other men above, the survivors were brought on board. The courage, initiative, and prompt decisive action displayed by Seaman First Class Brennan reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.