The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Coast Guard Medal to Boatswain’s Mate First Class Richard D. Dixon, United States Coast Guard, for extraordinary heroism on the morning of 4 July 1980 while serving as coxswain of MLB 44409 from Coast Guard Station Tillamook Bay, Oregon. During this period he was instrumental in the rescue of four men from a cap-sized small pleasure craft in turbulent surf in the entrance to Tillamook Bay. The boat had dashed around the tip of the north entrance jetty, directly into the path of a 16 to 18 foot breaking sea. The boat capsized. Two of the four occupants were hurled through the windshield before being thrown into the turbulent sea. MLB 44409, on station as a safety boat during an escort operation, was in position one mile behind the capsized boat and was directed to attempt to make the pickup. Petty Officer Dixon skillfully maneuvered the MLB alongside the capsized boat, which resulted in the bow of the MLB being less than 50 to 60 feet from the rocks of the jetty with the stern facing into the breakers. Demonstrating exceptional seamanship, Petty Officer Dixon maintained this position, despite the pounding surf, until all four people were safely aboard the MLB. The slightest mistake in the 12 to 15 foot breakers would have caused the MLB to be tossed unmercifully upon the treacherous rocks with the resultant death to his crew and the victims of the capsized boat. Petty Officer Dixon demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during this rescue mission. His unselfish actions, courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.