Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Gunner’s Mate Third Class

    Division:

    U.S.S. LST 656

    Action Date:

    October 29, 1944

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Gunner’s Mate Third Class Thomas B. Budinger (NSN: 8956708), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism while serving on board the U.S.S. LST 656 on 29 October 1944 at Marseille, France. When, in the performance of his duties as Boatswain’s Mate of the watch aboard the U.S.S. LST 656, Gunner’s Mate Third Class Budinger discovered a man struggling in the water between his ship and the U.S.S. LST 49, which was moored alongside, he immediately threw him a life jacket. Upon observing that the man was unable to reach for the life jacket and had ceased struggling to keep afloat, he unhesitatingly jumped into the water fully clothed, despite the imminent danger of being crushed between the two ships. Exerting tireless and heroic efforts, he succeeded in towing the helpless man to safety, and thus rescued him from almost inevitable drowning. The extraordinary courage, prompt and decisive action and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by GM# Budinger were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.