Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Port Securityman Second Class

    Action Date:

    November 5, 1972

    U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Port Securityman Second Class Joseph Michael Brockman, United States Coast Guard Reserve, for heroism on the morning of 5 November 1972, while personally augmenting the United States Coast Guard Lifeboat Station located in Louisville, Kentucky, when he rescued a 32-year old woman from drowning in the swift waters of the Ohio River. The woman had jumped from the 100-foot railing of the Clark Memorial Bridge and was in shock after submerging in the 38-degree water. Petty Officer Brockman, who was in the vicinity attending a Reserve meeting, heard the woman’s cries for help, investigated, and sighted her in the water. Attempting to man a boat to go to her rescue and discovering that the boat was not operational, Petty Officer Brockman immediately dived into the frigid waters of the rapid river current which was carrying the woman in the direction of the dam of the Ohio River. Fighting the treacherous current, he skillfully proceeded toward the victim and, upon reaching her, effected a lifesaving carry as she was completely helpless. By this time the swift current had carried Petty Officer Brockman and the victim downstream to within 60 feet of the paddle wheel on the Belle of Louisville wharf boat. As he struggled toward the boat, he was thrown a life ring and was assisted aboard with the nearly drowned woman. The police arrived shortly thereafter and transported the victim to the hospital for medical treatment. Petty Officer Brockman demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue mission. His unselfish actions and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.