Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Division:

    U.S.S. LCI(L) 209

    Action Date:

    January 26, 1944

    Commander Naval Forces North African Waters: Serial 1881 (March 27, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Gordon S. Brown (NSN: 0-161709), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism while serving on board the U.S.S. LCI(L) 209 while effecting a rescue at sea on 26 January 1944. The U.S.S. LCI(L) 209 went to the rescue of survivors of a British landing ship which had been bombed in action and set on fire. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brown exhibited initiative and extreme courage in diving into the sea and swimming with a line to men who were struggling in the water without life preservers alongside the burning ship. This valorous and forthright action on his part was accomplished at a time when there was imminent danger of being crushed between the two ships surging in the heavy wind and sea and contributed directly to the saving of several lives. The extraordinary heroism, prompt and decisive action, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brown were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.