Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Engineman Third Class

    Action Date:

    March 25, 1965

    U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Engineman Third Class Ronald Lee Hinchcliff, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on 25 March 1965 while serving aboard the CG-44324 when he assisted in the rescue of two persons from peril on Bodega Rock in Bodega Bay, California. The CG-44324 was dispatched from Bodega Bay Station and upon arrival on the scene located two men, one injured, stranded on a rock with 12-foot seas and 30-knot winds buffeting them. The men, who were the only survivors of a capsized outboard boat, had been washed onto the rock and were unable to help themselves due to shock and exposure. Hinchcliff and another Coast Guardsman, dressed in wet suits, immediately jumped from the CG-44324 and swam 30 yards through heavy surf to Bodega Rock with lifejackets for the survivors. While the injured man was being towed on a rubber mattress by the Coast Guardsman and civilian swimmer, Hinchcliff remained on the rock with the remaining survivor despite the hazards of an incoming tide and roughening sea conditions. After a wait of nearly two hours, a Coast Guard helicopter hoisted both men to safety and took them to shore. Hinchcliff demonstrated initiative and fortitude in spite of imminent personal danger during the entire operation. His unselfish actions, perseverance, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.