Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Machinery Technician Second Class

    Action Date:

    November 28, 1980

    U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Machinery Technician Second Class Gregory C. Holt, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the night of 28 November 1980 when he assisted in the apprehension of a man who was assaulting a young woman at the White Marsh Tennis and Recreation Club, Bowie, Maryland. The victim had been walking across an unlit parking lot to her car when she was attacked. Petty Officer Holt and another Coast Guardsman were returning to their car when they heard the woman screaming. Without hesitation the two men proceeded to the scene. As they approached, the assailant released the woman and ran into a nearby wooded area. After seeing that proper treatment was rendered to the victim, Petty Officer Holt, his fellow Coast Guardsman, and another man, without concern for their personal safety, entered the woods to search for the assailant. Without flashlights or knowledge of the area, the three men established contact with the suspect, and tracked him for over half and hour before trapping him in an open area. As the suspect tried to escape, Petty Officer Holt, and the civilian with him, tackled the fugitive and restrained him until the arrival of the police. Later information revealed that this criminal was armed with a knife and had been charged on four previous occasions with assault but never convicted. The actions of Petty Officer Holt interrupted a crime of violence and directly led to the apprehension and arrest of the assailant. Additionally, his testimony in court as to what took place that night was instrumental in securing a conviction for assault and attempted rape. Petty Officer Holt demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this incident. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.