Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Engineman First Class

    Action Date:

    May 26, 1968

    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 First Class James Harold Rector, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the morning of 26 May 1968 while serving as crew member of the [motor lifeboat] CG-44303, engaged in the perilous rescue of one survivor and the subsequent search for three other persons from the capsized pleasure craft YUM-YUM at Umpqua River Entrance, Winchester Bay, Oregon. Despite 35-knot winds and rough seas with 12- to 15-foot breakers which broke up the pleasure craft YUM-YUM. The CG-44303 proceeded to the scene and upon arrival sighted the bow section in the surf and a survivor about 75 feet away repeatedly going under the surface. As the CG-44303 was maneuvered alongside, surf broke over the decks and the victim disappeared under the port side. Seaman Petty Officer Rector leaned far over the side of the boat on the down roll and, although at times completely submerged, seized and held the survivor until he could be pulled to safety. Learning that three other persons had been aboard the demolished craft, the CG-44303 then commenced a search for the missing men while maneuvering in breaking swells for approximately 30 minutes, grounding once, frequently rolling broadside and repeatedly being engulfed by the surf. Petty Officer Rector was constantly on the alert for the survivors and skillfully assisted in the recovery of two victims. Petty Officer Rector demonstrated initiative, fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.