Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Seaman

    Action Date:

    August 30, 1991

    U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Seaman Robert A. Bowen, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the night of 30 August 1991 while serving as a crewmember of Utility Boat CG-41439. During this period, Seaman Bowen was engaged in maintaining a security zone around a barge being used as a platform for a fireworks display at Northeast Harbor, Maine. During the display, sparks from the launched fireworks ignited stockpiled pyrotechnics o the deck of the barge, resulting in a tremendous explosion. The explosion forced three persons into the water; another person was apparently knocked unconscious and set ablaze, and a fifth person remained on the barge, sheltered behind a 55-gallon drum. Seaman Bowen immediately manned the fire monitor at the boat’s bow as CG-41439 maneuvered closer to the burning barge. When within range of the barge, Seaman Bowen applied water over the entire surface in an attempt to extinguish numerous deck fires, as well as the burning clothing of the unconscious man. Once the flames subsided, he assisted another crewmember in retrieving the stokes litter and other medical equipment from the lower cabin. Then, without regard to his own safety, he leaped onboard the still-burning barge to assist in rescuing two survivors and bringing them safely onto CG-41349. When the Utility Boat arrived at Northeast Harbor, Seaman Bowen assisted in transferring the survivors to medical authorities. Seaman Bowen demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger. His courage and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.