Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Senior Chief Boatswain’s Mate

    Action Date:

    December 27, 1970

    U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Senior Chief Boatswain’s Mate Wayne Gilbert Gage, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the morning of 27 December 1970 while serving as Officer-in-Charge, U.S. Coast Guard Siuslaw River Station, engaged in the perilous rescue of three crewmen from the grounded fishing vessel HAROLD J, two miles south of Hecata Head Light Station, Florence, Oregon. Although hampered by hazardous conditions and darkness, Senior Chief Petty Officer GAGE, along with three other Coast Guardsmen, located the HAROLD J. Despite the heavy breakers, Senior Chief Petty Officer Gage entered the surf and swam to the disabled vessel and made three separate trips to rescue the victims. Senior Chief Petty Officer Gage demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger to save the lives of these men. His unselfish actions and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.