Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Boatswain’s Mate Second Class

    Action Date:

    January 12, 1966

    U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Roger Charles Boggs, United States Coast Guard, for heroic conduct on January 12, 1966 while serving as coxswain of the motor surfboat of the U.S.C.G.C. ANDROSCOGGIN [ WHEC-68] engaged in rescuing 30 persons from the Greek Steamship LAMPSIS which flooded and sank in the North Atlantic Ocean. When the distressed ship radioed for help, the ANDROSCOGGIN immediately responded. Upon arrival on the scene, communications with the LAMPSIS were established and the ANDRSCOGGIN stood by throughout the night. At first light, a damage control party was placed aboard to assist in saving the ship. All efforts were unavailing, however, and at dusk the damage control party returned to the ANDROSCOGGIN. At 8 the next morning, the crew of the LAMPSIS signaled for assistance in abandoning ship. Boggs, designated coxswain of the motor surfboat, immediately made four trips to the LAMPSIS to remove survivors. Although a heavy 20-foot swell and the darkness made boat handling and embarkation of the survivors a hazardous operation, and the language barrier and anxiety of the survivors added to the difficulties, Boggs persevered in his duties and in 51 minutes successfully removed all 30 survivors without injury. Boggs displayed outstanding courage, skill, and initiative during this rescue. His unselfish actions, perseverance, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.