Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Boatswain’s Mate Second Class

    Action Date:

    March 27, 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 Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Lee E. Thompson, United States Coast Guard, for heroism on the morning of 27 March 1975 while on authorized liberty from Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Detroit, Michigan, when he rescued two small children and assisted two adults to safety from a raging fire which swept through a two-story apartment on a military installation. Petty Officer Thompson, a resident of the apartment complex, was en route to work when he saw smoke, rushed to the scene, and quickly broke open the door to gain entrance. At this time, another resident of the apartment complex was attracted by the smoke and joined Petty Officer Thompson in entering the building to search for the occupants. The smoke and heat conditions were so intolerable that the two rescuers were forced to crawl upon entering as they made their way toward the living room where children were heard crying. They found a little girl, age 2, on the sofa and carried her outside to safety. Upon their return, the intense heat and smoke made reentry impossible. Undaunted, Petty Officer Thompson and his companion immediately proceeded to the rear door of the apartment, broke in, and after arduous personal exposure to the fire, located a 3-year old boy and carried him to safety. As the two men attempted to search the second floor, they were driven back by the intense heat and smoke. Emerging form the burning building, they observed a man hanging from the ledge of the second floor window; yelled to him to jump, and when he did, broke his fall. Shortly thereafter, a woman appeared at the window and although at first very apprehensive of jumping, was strongly urged and finally jumped and was caught by the rescuers. By this time, flames coming from the windows and doors precluded further rescue efforts. Petty Officer Thompson demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.