Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Seaman

    Action Date:

    August 8, 1975

    U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Medal to Seaman Edward J. Rogean, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the night of 8 August 1975 while serving as the coxswain of a 13-foot Zodiac test boat during the rescue of the pilot of a downed aircraft in heavy seas off Race Point Light, Provincetown, Massachusetts. Upon notification of the downed plane, Seaman Rogean and a rescue crew from Coast Guard Station Race Point proceeded to the scene and upon arrival were confronted with turbulent seas and high winds that severely hampered the launching of the rescue boat. After repeated attempts, the boat was launched and with no navigational equipment, Seaman Rogean skillfully maneuvered the boat toward the pilot’s cries for help. Within minutes the gravely injured pilot was located clinging to the wreckage from the plane, and was swiftly brought aboard. As Seaman Rogean piloted the craft toward shore, the violent seas capsized the boat, and the occupants were hurled into the sea. Seaman Rogean, with complete disregard for his own safety, seized the victim as the boat was capsizing and shielded him with his own body, absorbing the full weight of the boat and its contents as it crashed on top of them. After reaching the safety of shore, and insuring that the injured man received proper medical attention, Seaman Rogean attempted to return to the plane to search for another member of the aircraft. This attempt was thwarted by the fierceness of the seas that prevented the boat from being launched. Seaman Rogean demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.