Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Damage Controlman Third Class

    Action Date:

    February 12, 1977

    U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Damage Controlman Third Class John W. Carroll, United States Coast Guard, for extraordinary heroism on the afternoon of 12 February 1977 while serving as a member of a rescue party dispatched from Coast Guard Station Chetco River, Oregon to search for three persons who were swept overboard when their 21-foot pleasure craft lost engine power, broached and grounded in turbulent surf south of Smith River, California. While searching along the beach for the survivors, Petty Officer Carroll observed two of the victims in the surf approximately 100-yards off-shore. Recognizing the imminent danger to the two persons, Petty Officer Carroll summoned help with his portable radio, and then dived into the frigid waters and began swimming towards the hapless victims. Upon reaching the two persons, Petty Officer Carroll determined that the man was wearing a life jacket and in much better condition than the woman, who was holding on to a seat cushion. Swimming to the woman, Petty Officer Carroll attempted to assist her into the rescue basket of a helicopter that had arrived on scene. During this unsuccessful attempt the woman lost her grip on the sea cushion. Immediately, Petty Officer Carroll directed his efforts to keep the woman’s head above water, while simultaneously trying to maintain his own precarious position in the huge breakers. After several more rescue attempts by the helicopter failed, Petty Officer Carroll realized that the woman was unconscious and that this own endurance was nearly exhausted. Releasing the woman, he was finally pulled aboard the helicopter and returned to shore. Petty Officer Carroll demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue attempt. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.