Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class

    Action Date:

    November 5, 1976

    U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class John K. McGuire, United States Coast Guard, for heroism at the risk of life on 5 November 1976 while serving as aircrewman and hoist operator of Coast Guard HH-52A 1367 helicopter engaged in the perilous rescue of three persons from the fishing vessel HA343LF which was disabled and breaking up in the surf on the north shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Arriving on scene Petty Officer McGuire successfully hoisted the first two survivors to the aircraft despite winds gusting to 40 miles an hour, visibility of one-quarter mile and 15 to 30 foot seas. During the third hoist, the rigging from the rapidly disintegrating boat fouled around the rescue basket and as Petty Officer McGuire attempted to free it, a large wave lifted the boat and debris and carried them toward shore, causing the hoist cable to part. The helicopter was immediately landed in the water and a platform pickup attempted. This effort failed as the survivor refused to release the rescue basket, requiring Petty Officer McGuire, without regard to his personal safety, to enter the roiling waters, break the manÕs grip on the basket, and assist him to shore where they were picked up by the helicopter. The aircraft then returned to Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point and the survivors were transported to a hospital. Petty Officer McGuire demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in the rescue. His selfish actions, courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.